For How to prepare for Ramadan ─ A Non-Muslim’s Guide
Because we’re sure that some of you have questions, we’ve compiled a helpful FAQ section to answer all of your Ramadan-related queries.
1. What is Ramadan and why do Muslim’s observe it?
The Month of Ramadan is one of the holiest and sacred months on the Islamic calendar, and is full of countless benefits (spiritual and otherwise). This year, Ramadan commences on the 5 May and 1.6 billion Muslims all around the world will observe it. During this sacred month, Muslims are encouraged to fast every day from dawn to sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and it is a time of spiritual discipline and deep contemplation of one’s relationship with God, extra prayer, increased charity and generosity and intense study of the Quran. It is also a time to be spent with loved ones and connecting with the community by exchanging treats and extending a helping hand where needed.
2. Not even water/gum/smoking?
Those who observe the fasting period must abstain from all food and liquid during the allocated times. This also includes smoking, chewing gum and intimacy.
3. Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Fasting serves a spiritual and social purpose in the sense that it reminds observers of human frailty and allows them to empathise with those who are hungry and thirsty so that they can feel compassion for (and a duty to help) the poor and needy.
4. What happens if/when you are ill?
Concessions are made for those who are ill, pregnant or nursing, menstruating, or traveling, and for young children and the elderly.
5. Why do the dates change?
Muslims observe a lunar calendar which is based on the phases of the moon (whose 12 months add up to approximately 354 days). That’s 11 days shorter than the 365 days of the standard Gregorian calendar. The Islamic lunar calendar moves backward approximately 11 days each year in relation to the regular Gregorian calendar which ultimately means that the first day of the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, moves backward by about 11 days each year.
The beginning of a new moon signals the start of a new month on the Islamic calendar, so naturally; Ramadan will start once the new moon is sighted and will end as such.
6. What can I do to be respectful/aid my fellow Muslim friends during Ramadan?
Though it is a thoughtful sentiment to abstain from eating and drinking in front of your Muslim friends and colleagues during Ramadan, it is not entirely necessary or expected of you. However, try to be mindful that they are fasting, so do not offer them a bite or sip (but if you do, that’s okay too! No harm done). If you’re a colleague, understand if they need to take leave early or during work hours, as this time is likely allocated to prayer. Try not to schedule work lunches or other strenuous activities like team building during the Holy month either.
7. When is Eid?
Eid will take place on the 5th of June 2019 this year ─ TBC.
How to prepare for Ramadan ─ A Muslim’s Guide
Plan & Organise
Whether you’re jotting it down in your daily planner, marking it on your Islamic calendar or simply being mindful of the countdown to the commencement date, it’s good practice to keep track of time and make the necessary arrangements and adjustments before the Holy Month starts.
Prepare Spiritually & Mentally
As you are likely aware, Ramadan isn’t only about starving the body of food. It’s also about cultivating the habit of praying, reading the Holy Book and giving to charity. Fasting is, in essence, a spiritual exercise and requires observers to align both mind and soul to undertake the task successfully. How to do that? Start working on your patience; be extra vigilant with your conversations and try not to partake in backbiting, slandering or discussing the faults of others.
Eat Healthy & Moderately
It’s a common misconception that Muslims eat less during Ramadan due to the fasting period. Though this is partially true, the Iftar feast that follows sunset usually includes an elaborate assortment of decadent foods and savouries to celebrate the day’s blessings. Keeping that in mind, it’s important to pay attention to what you eat. Research the nutritious value of the food you eat and be mindful of your food content before and after fasting. Aim to eat food that includes optimal energy so that you can accomplish your daily tasks and increase your worship.
Plan your Finances
Because Ramadan requires a whole month of spiritual and charity exercise, Muslims need to secure the necessary materials/items beforehand to prepare for the holy month more effectively. This includes budgeting for charity and extra groceries, among other expenses.
Stay posted for more updates on Ramadan 2019.
Shopping for Eid clothes? Visit the Ramadan Shop.
