Cultural Snapshot: Happy Ramadan!

Ramadan Mubarak!!

What does that mean?

Blessed Ramadan. It is a term Muslims use to wish blessings (good things) to each other during the holy month of Ramadan.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. The sighting of the thin crescent moon signals the beginning of this holy month and it typically lasts from 29 to 30 days, depending on the moon sightings. Unlike Jewish fasts, which are usually from sundown to sundown, or Christian fasts, which are usually for 24 hours, Muslim fasts only last during daylight hours. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset: those hours can vary depending on where you are around the world! In some regions, fasting can last up to 18 hours during summer, while in others, it may be as short as 10 hours in winter.

So what exactly are Muslims fasting from?

When Ramadan is mentioned people usually speak of abstaining from (avoiding or not having at all) food and drink, but Ramadan is far from just leaving food and drink it is a spiritual journey which renews and strengthens the tie between the creation (that's us!) and their creator. It is a time of self reflection and spiritual growth. We use this month to teach and strengthen self discipline by abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs throughout the day. It increases our empathy (understanding and compassion) for those less fortunate and our gratitude for what we have— when we feel hunger and thirst from dawn to sunset. During this month we increase in acts of worship (such as extra prayers, giving charity, breaking bad habits, forgiving others, and reciting Quran). Ramadan also brings Muslims together and creates a sense of unity among us as we break our fasts together and pray together.

The crescent moon marks the end of this holy month and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, which is a day of celebration with joy, gratitude, and with strengthened faith.

The true winner at the end of Ramadan is the one who comes out of this month stronger spiritually--ready to become a better person to make the world around them a better place simply for gaining the pleasure of their creator.

Where can I learn more about Ramadan?

For everyone: To learn more about this blessed month, simply walk into any Masjid and ask. Muslims are more than happy and willing to share all they know about Ramadan or anything that has to do with Islam. Friday evenings are a great time to visit!

For older students: If you and older students want to know more, I recommend reading How Does Ramadan Work Beginners Guide for a more detailed insight of Ramadan.

For younger students: Check out My First Ramadan by Karen Katz, It's Ramadan, Curious George! by Hena Khan and H.A. Rey, or Under the Ramadan Moon by Sylvia Whitman.

Culture Snapshots are written by staff, students, or friends of 1kNaCl. This Snapshot was written by Ms. Safeea, with book recommendations from parents of some of our students.

Want to write about the history of your favorite holiday or share a holiday tradition? Email us at info@1knacl.com and let us know!