Tiffanny Junee

Ramadan is a significant month in the Islamic calendar. Here’s a guide to Ramadan for non-Muslim Australians:

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time of spiritual reflection, increased devotion, worship and acts of charity.

Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all healthy, adult Muslims.

The Five Pillars of Islam are the five basic acts of worship that are considered mandatory for all Muslims to follow. They are:

1. Shahada: The declaration of faith. Muslims must declare their faith in one God (Allah) and that Prophet Muhammad is the last messenger of God.
2. Salat: The performance of ritual prayer five times a day, facing towards the Kaaba in Mecca.
3. Zakat: The giving of alms or charity to the poor and needy. Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth, typically 2.5%, to those in need.
4. Sawm: The observance of fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, where Muslims fast from dawn until sunset for the entire month.
5. Hajj: The pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, at least once in a Muslim’s lifetime if they are physically and financially able to do so.

The Five Pillars of Islam represent the foundation of Muslim faith and practice, and serve as a guide for Muslims to lead a moral and ethical life.

When does Ramadan occur?

Ramadan occurs on a different date each year, as it follows the lunar calendar. In Australia, Ramadan is usually observed during the summer months. This year, Ramadan began at sunset yesterday.

What are the rules of Ramadan?

• Fasting: Muslims fast from dawn until sunset during the month of Ramadan. This means abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and intimate relations from sunrise to sunset.
• Intention: Muslims must have the intention of fasting before dawn each day.
• Exemptions: There are certain exemptions from fasting, including for children, the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people who are ill or travelling.
• Breaking the fast: The fast is broken each day at sunset with a meal called Iftar. Muslims are encouraged to break their fast with dates and water before eating a full meal.
• Prayer: Muslims are encouraged to increase their prayer and devotion during Ramadan, with extra prayers called Taraweeh offered after the nightly Isha prayer.
• Charity: Ramadan is also a time for acts of charity and giving, with many Muslims giving Zakat (obligatory charity) or Sadaqah (voluntary charity) during the month.
• Reading the Quran: Many Muslims also aim to read the entire Quran during Ramadan, with extra emphasis placed on its recitation and understanding.
• Personal conduct: Muslims are encouraged to use Ramadan as a time for personal reflection and self-improvement, with a focus on avoiding negative behaviours such as gossip, lying, and anger. It’s important to note that the rules of Ramadan may vary slightly depending on cultural or regional practices, and that Muslims follow these rules out of their own personal faith and commitment to Islam.

What is fasting in Ramadan?

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, which means abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and intimate relations. The fast is broken each day at sunset with a meal called Iftar.

How can you support your Muslim friends and colleagues during Ramadan?

Here are a few ways you can show your support:

• Be mindful of scheduling meetings or events during the month of Ramadan, as your Muslim colleagues may be fasting and may need to take time off for prayer or to break their fast.
• If you’re sharing a meal with a Muslim friend or colleague during Ramadan, be considerate and wait until after sunset to eat or drink.
• Be understanding if your Muslim friend or colleague seems tired or irritable during the month of Ramadan, as fasting can be physically and emotionally challenging.

Can non-Muslims fast during Ramadan?

Non-Muslims are not required to fast during Ramadan, but some choose to fast as a sign of respect or solidarity with their Muslim friends and colleagues.

If you do choose to fast, be sure to consult with a doctor first, especially if you have any health concerns.

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. It is a joyous occasion, and Muslims around the world celebrate with prayer, feasting, and spending time with family and friends.

If you have Muslim friends or colleagues, it’s a great opportunity to wish them, “Happy Eid” and join in the celebration.