Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. The lunar calendar is about 10 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. Consequently, the month of Ramadan falls during different seasons every decade or so.
Fasting is considered to be a pillar of Islam, as it is mentioned in the Quran: “O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you (O Muslims) just as it was prescribed for people before you, so that you may be more pious.” [Quran, 2:183]
For Muslims, fasting was not a new thing. Before the advent of the Prophet of Islam in Arabia, people of different faiths fasted in different ways and forms. With the establishment of Islam, fasting became a cornerstone of Islam practiced by Muslims with great enthusiasm and passion.
Charity and spirituality
Fasting in Islam does not only include refraining from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk, but also refraining from talking unnecessarily and avoiding stressful situations while making endeavours to engage in prayers, worship and charity.
Fasting is a religious obligation upon all those who are above the age of puberty. Of course, those who have health issues, or are travelling long and difficult distances are excused from fasting. Children, women in their menses, pregnant women and women nursing the newborn are exempt from fasting.
The main objective of fasting is not to inflict hardship; rather it is to get closer to God. However, fasting has other objectives including self-development and health benefits. The month of fasting also helps bring about family reunions and the community closer. It is when charity is encouraged and forgiveness is considered to be a very noble task. Fasting also works as a reminder of the blessings that are bestowed upon us.
In Ramadan, the days are spent fasting and the nights are spent in prayers and recitation of the Quran. Thus Ramadan is a month of renewal of faith, a time to reconnect with God and the positive side of our humanity. Generosity and kindness become even more apparent during the month, and every Muslim seeks God in his or her endeavours.
It is important to note that doing good and immersing one’s self in worship and spirituality is encouraged throughout the year. However, during the month of Ramadan, it becomes a priority.
Fasting in Ireland
This year and in the coming few years, fasting will be extraordinarily challenging due to the length of the day.
Almost 20 hours of fasting would mean that a Muslim has to be extra careful in managing his/her energy. It will be particularly difficult for those who work long hours during the day in construction or work that involves hard physical labour.
Muslims then rely on their spiritual strength rather the physical. So they happily endure the difficulties in hope to better their relationship with God. Communal feasts are organised throughout the month almost in all mosques in Ireland. The Muslim communities dotted across Ireland come together during this month – in worship and in celebration of the countless blessings surrounding them.
This year, there are millions of poor and refugees in the Middle East and elsewhere, who will not know when and from where will their next meal come. Muslims in Ireland will feel their hunger and thirst, but also celebrate that the peace and plenty that they have in Ireland. There is a lot to be thankful for.
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