Support during Ramadhan
What is Ramadhan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic Lunar calendar. It is a month wherein all healthy Muslims across the globe observe 29 or 30 days of consecutive fasting based on the visual sighting of the crescent moon. The fast requires a person to abstain from food, drink and sexual contact from dawn till dusk every day. The fast here in Vancouver during the summer months could last up to 16 hours, while in winter would be over the duration of 9-10 hours. At times, certain groups of people may be exempt from fasting due to health concerns or other considerations. During Ramadhan, some Muslims also congregate in the observance of special daily night prayers which last about 90-120 minutes listening to the recitation of the Holy Quran.
Among the benefits of fasting, a few are:
- Enhances a person鈥檚 discipline and willpower
- To feel compassion for the less fortunate
- Develops a sense of community and generosity
- Increases one鈥檚 spirituality, patience and determination
Considerations for Muslims Observing Ramadhan at 丁香园AV
- Ramadhan is observed between approximately February 28 - March 29 depending on sighting of crescent moon.
- Greetings during Ramadhan include Ramadhan Kareem (Generous Ramadan), or Ramahdan Mubarak (Blessed Ramadan)
- Those observing will not eat or drink anything between approximately 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Ramadhan celebrations often involve gatherings and prayers late into the night for some Muslim communities.
- Fasting over the month results in natural bodily responses such as fatigue & inability to concentrate.
- International students may be away from home which may create a sense of lonliness and lack of community support.
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