Do you have friends who are fasting? Fasting is an important part of Ramazan for those of the Islamic faith and children over the age of seven are enjoined to fast. Fasting is not just about skipping meals—it’s about something much bigger: it’s about getting close to Allah, in faith, patience and self-control. It also teaches one to become a kind and thoughtful human being. Ramazan is a special month for Muslims around the world and fasting is an important way to celebrate it.
Ramazan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is a time when the Quran (the holy book of Islam) was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. During this month, Muslims fast to feel closer to Allah and to remember those who don’t have enough food for their daily meals. It’s also a time for reflection, prayer, and giving to others. It’s a chance to focus on being a better person and making the world a kinder place.
Before the sun rises, Muslims eat a meal called Suhoor to give them energy for the day ahead. After sunset, they break their fast with a meal called Iftar. The time for Iftar is special, because it’s when Muslims gather with family and friends to enjoy food together and share the end of a fasting day.
Fasting isn’t easy but it helps one to learn how to control desires and to be patient. When you’re fasting, you appreciate how lucky you are to have food and water whenever you need it. This helps us to be more grateful for the things we have. It helps us to understand others and think about people who are less fortunate. Fasting also teaches empathy and encourages us to help others. During Ramazan, Muslims gather with family and friends to pray, share meals and enjoy each other’s company. The spirit of togetherness and generosity is an important aspect of Ramazan.
One of the most beautiful aspects of Ramazan is sharing. This can be donating money to charity, helping a neighbour, or simply spreading kindness to everyone. Muslims believe that when they give, they are sharing the love of Allah and help to make the world a better place.
Ramazan is also a time to spend with family. Many families come together for Iftar, where they break their fast with dates which include prayer and visiting the mosque. Prayer time is for reflection, where Muslims pray to Allah and think about how they can improve and be better people. It’s a time to be thankful for everything you have and to focus on the good in the world. So, if you are fasting or have friends who are, remember it is a time of learning to be strong, kind and patient and creating a special spiritual bond with the Almighty.
See you next week!
Aunty Hashani
