For those working in predominantly non-Muslim environments, sometimes it can get a little tedious having to explain why you’re starving yourself but not on a diet, and why ‘not even water’. Here is Amaliah’s official Ramadan explainer for your colleagues. No more re-answering questions whilst feeling a little hangry. Feel free to send this through to all socials, and Whatsapp groups.

The blessed month is here!  Ramadan is an incredibly spiritual sacred and highly anticipated month for Muslims, it is called the month of the Quran because it was the month the Quran was first revealed. It is called the month of mercy because rewards for good deeds are multiplied. Within the month we try and perform as many good deeds as we can.

Key questions answered:

Q: How many days does Ramadan last? 

Answer: 29 or 30 days, depending on the moonsighting

Q: What happens during a fast?

Answer: We start before sunrise and end at sunset, during this period we abstain from food and drink as well as other desires such as smoking and sex. We get up before the sun rises in order to have our first meal, this also probably explains why we may also be quite tired. Many Muslims also strive to carry out extra acts of worships during the month as we believe the reward for good deeds are multiplied.

Q: Why do Muslims fast?

Answer: Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a religious commandment. Ramadan is a month within with Muslims have been commanded by the Quran to fast. You may have often heard that Muslims fast to understand how the poor feel, however, the key idea is that we should fast to develop mindfulness of Allah, which you can read about here. 

Q: What are the benefits of Ramadan?

Answer: Fasting helps us to develop self-control, it nurtures gratitude, and is a time to build a better relationship with the Quran. By keeping away from that which is lawful e.g. food and drink, it helps us to build the willpower to then keep away from that which is unlawful for Muslims. We strive in this month to elevate our spiritual self.

Q: What is Eid?

Answer: Eid is a celebration at the end of Ramadan. It is when we stop fasting and celebrate the end of the month.

Q: What is the etiquette for non-Muslims around Muslims that are fasting?

Answer: Just live your life, there is no etiquette or expectations from non-Muslims who are around Muslims that are fasting.