Ramadan Reflections: Finding Inner Peace and Purpose
The Ramadan start date for 2023 was Wednesday 22 March, following the sighting of the moon over Mecca. Lasting for 30 days, Ramadan will end on Friday 21 April, with the celebratory days of Eid al-Fitr starting on Saturday 22 April or Sunday 23 April.
Find out more about Ramadan and how you can show your support to staff and clients below:
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan remembers the month the Qur'an (the Muslim holy book) was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The actual night that the Qur'an was revealed is a night known as Lailut ul-Qadr ('The Night of Power').
Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims worldwide. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims all over the world. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during the day.
The observance of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the five basic acts of worship that are mandatory for Muslims to observe. The other pillars include the declaration of faith, prayer, giving to charity, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.
How is Ramadan celebrated?
Most Muslim people fast between dawn to sunset and devote themselves to their faith. Fasting teaches self-discipline and reminds them of the suffering of the poor. During Ramadan, people have one meal just before dawn and one another directly after sunset. Children, pregnant women, elders and ill people don’t have to fast. Also, Muslim people try to read the Qur’an at least once and join special services in Mosques.
iCAN member Nadia Monnan shared:
“For me, Ramadan is the month of peace and mercy. It’s the month where I yearn for a deeper connection with God and disconnect from this worldly life.”
How you can show your support during Ramadan:
Avoid adding difficulties to your colleagues, such as asking them to work overtime;
Not offering them food or drink out of consideration;
Avoid food-related work events
Donate to Muslim charities
Raise Ramadan awareness in the workplace
Host a Ramadan quiz
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