Ramadan celebrations began Tuesday 17th February and will conclude either on Wednesday 16th or Thursday 19th March, depending on the sighting of the new moon.
Upon the sighting of the new moon, the Holy month commences, and Muslims across the world follow the timetable for prayer and fasting for Suhoor and Iftar. The Islamic calendar is based around the lunar cycle, meaning the dates of Ramadan rotate every year – this is usually by ten days each year.
The month of Ramadan brings together the Muslim community in Aberdeen. Many Muslims also attend local Mosques to pray with their community.
Fasting is a very important aspect of Ramadan, with Muslims believing it brings them closer to their faith and their God, Allah. Those celebrating have a meal before dawn, which is called Suhoor, and another after sunset, which is known as the Iftar. A fast is broken by a gathering of friends and family, starting with water and dates.
At the University of Aberdeen, support is provided, including flexible arrangements for fasting students and staff.
The Gaudie heard from some of the students at the university about what Ramadan means to them, and how they balance it with their studies.
Nour Elshenawy, an Editor-in-Chief at the Gaudie, said: “Ramadan is always a magical month for me, usually spent with family in Qatar surrounded by traditions that make the time feel especially meaningful. This year, balancing university, work, and the weight of ongoing crises in the Middle East while spending the month fully in Aberdeen has made it feel a little less bright. I love Aberdeen as my home away from home and the community here, but I can’t help yearning for the family traditions and cultural atmosphere that make Ramadan so special.”
Serar Omar, a first-year med student talked about taking part in Ramadan as a new student: “Participating in Ramadan as a first year university student has its perks and its difficulties. I think the biggest struggle is finding the balance between conserving my energy while also still taking part in the activities that make uni life so exciting such as sports and events. However, I have managed to find myself amidst loads of friends who are also fasting allowing us to have dinner together and being a part of a larger community which is what I loved about Ramadan back home.”
The ending of Ramadan will bring about Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast). While the end of fasting is celebrated, Muslims also give thanks to Allah.
