Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic faith, marked by fasting, spiritual reflection, and community gatherings. It is expected to occur during the spring of 2023, starting on March 23rd and ending on April 22nd. As Muslims worldwide ready for this holy month, many look forward to the traditions and experiences that make Ramadan such a particular time of year.
During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from food, drink, and other biological necessities from dawn until sunset. This period of fasting is intended to cultivate self-discipline and spiritual growth. Muslims engage in additional acts of worship, such as reading the Quran and attending nightly prayers called Taraweeh (Hornung et al., 2023). Ramadan is a time for charitable giving, with many Muslims contributing to sustain those in need. One of the most important traditions of Ramadan is breaking the fast each evening with a meal called Iftar (Hornung et al., 2023). This is a time for families and communities to uniteand share food and fellowship. Many people likewise enjoy Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal that sustains the fast.
There are several things I look forward to doing during my spring holidays and Ramadan. One of Ramadan’s most significant aspects is the chance to deepen my understanding of the faith. Many Muslim student organizations hold events and discussions during Ramadan to help students connect with their religious identities and explore their beliefs. This can be a powerful and transformative experience, particularly for me, a person grappling with questions of faith and identity. Ramadan is a time for increased community engagement and social activities; I will attend iftar dinners and other events hosted by some local mosques. Finally, I look forward to the accomplishment of completing an entire month of fasting. Ramadan can be challenging, however, the sense of discipline and self-control that comes with fasting can be empowering, and I often emerge from the month with a revived sense of purpose and commitment to faith.
In conclusion, Ramadan is a memorable and noteworthy time for Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting, spiritual contemplation, and community engagement. As a student, there are many ways to engage with the traditions and experiences of Ramadan for me, from deepening my understanding of the faith to connecting with others and building relationships. Ultimately, Ramadan provides an opportunity to grow closer to Allah and to make a stronger and more meaningful connection with one’s faith.
Reference
Hornung, E., Schwerdt, G., & Strazzeri, M. (2023). Religious practice and student performance: Evidence from Ramadan fasting. Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, 205, 100–119.