Ramadan 2022: Ramadan & Its Importance To Muslims
Over 1.7 billion Muslims globally will take part in Ramadan which takes place on Saturday, 2nd of April for a whole lunar month. The date goes back 10 days every year, because of the lunar nature of the Islamic calendar.
This will be the first time Muslims will be celebrating it with reduced Covid restrictions, in 2 years. As we become more and more connected, you will likely encounter Muslims as colleagues, your child’s teacher or your neighbour. You probably have questions about this religious occasion you keep hearing about - we got you covered.
A family and friends gathering at the end of the day.
What is Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar (lunar Hijri calendar). People often refer to it as the ‘Christmas’ for Muslims, mainly because it's the easiest way to describe it to someone who isn't Muslim. As the holiest month in Islam, it's important to remember its meaning, so whilst it might be referred to as the ‘Christmas for Muslims’ - the spiritual connections Muslims have with time is very special to them.
What happens during Ramadan
You’ve probably heard of fasting right, the health craze that somehow works wonders for so many people. Ramadan is a month of fasting and abstaining from things considered to be impure for the mind and body. Those that take part in Ramadan abstain from food, drink and impure thoughts between the hours of sunrise (Fajr) and sunset, allowing them instead to focus on prayer and connecting with Allah (God) and good deeds. Muslims will give in charity a lot during this month, they will do favours for people, help the less fortunate and gift each other with kindness and good things.
The month is about growth and improvement, a time for rekindling a relationship with God, an introduction of good habits and removal of bad habits.
At the end of the day, there is a ‘modest feast’ with the whole family and friends - it’s like a little reward. At the end of the month, there is a large celebration called Eid (first of two Eid) where people exchange gifts, eat food and celebrate the conclusion of Ramadan.
Why is fasting important to Muslims
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It was ordered in the Qur’an and is expected that all able Muslims (those who are mature and in good health) should fast from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan.
During this time, fasting is more than just abstinence, it is a means of worship and for Muslims to feel a closer and deeper connection with Allah (SWT). Fasting allows each individual to understand what it means to go without and to learn patience with oneself and those around them, as well as compassion for those less fortunate.
