Dear Loyola community,
The new moon marks the beginning of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar today and, with it, the beginning of Ramadan. Why am I so excited when that means refraining from food and drink for almost 14 hours, from dawn until sunset?
It is true. Every healthy adult Muslim is required to fast. That includes: no smoking, no vaping, no chewing gum. You can still brush your teeth and gargle with mouthwash, but don’t swallow any. So who is exempt? Children, nursing or pregnant women, travelers, and people with serious health conditions are not expected to fast.
Every year, Ramadan falls 11 days earlier than the previous year. Because of the moving month, everyone gets to experience Ramadan in different seasons of the year ensuring equal treatment. Hence, no one gets to always fast in the long, hot days of summer, while others get the shorter and colder days of winter.
For me, the beauty of Ramadan is that Muslims share a spiritual experience that connects them across geographical boundaries. I love that our family gets together every night to eat dinner (iftar), and I get to pray taraweeh, Ramadan evening prayer, at the mosque filled to capacity with my Muslim sisters, young and old.
No time to waste. So I put away my crochet hook and turn off my television and focus on what’s important. My goal every Ramadan is to recite the whole Quran while reflecting on its meaning. Giving charity is a big thing and highly encouraged throughout this month. The biggest goal of this month is to control one’s temper, abstain from any foul language, refrain from harming others, show concern for the needy, become a better person, improve one’s relationship with others and with God. What a gift Ramadan is!
Ramadan Kareem (Blessed) Everyone!
Samar El-Rifai Sarmini, Ph.D.
Student Success Center
