With Ramadan being such an important date in the Islamic calendar, we spoke to Sixth Form student Haris on celebrating the festival through prayer, feasting, sharing gifts and giving to charity.
Speaking to us on day 28 of Ramadan, Haris said: “I’m feeling good! It’s been an achievement, and it will be a great achievement to celebrate of this being a month where we have been able to fast. Many people will struggle – it is not an easy task!”
What is Ramadan and what does it mean to the Muslim community?
“Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic calendar. It is always determined by the moon sighting because our calendar is based on the moon sighting. The month of Ramadan is about recognising people who are less fortunate than us around the world, and we should understand what it feels like to be in their situation.
Another significant reason for Ramadan is that it is an important time to connect with God.”
Haris talks about Ramadan
What is it like to be at a residential school during Ramadan?
“It’s been not as bad as I thought it was going to be! I’ve still been able to maintain the fast and practise the voluntary prayers that we do throughout this month, as well as still being able to recite the Qur’an as we would do at home. The only thing is that we are having to cook for ourselves outside of the fasting period, which takes extra time, so I guess maybe it is not as relaxing as it normally is at home!”
Listen to more of what Haris has to say about Ramadan and the celebration of Eid above.
Eid Mubarak!
