Assalamu Alaikum! The holy month of Ramadan has begun, observed by 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide. This month holds deep significance in Islam, as it was during Ramadan that the first verses of the Quran—Islam’s holy book—were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is a time of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection.
“Why do Muslims fast?” you may ask. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, fundamental acts of worship that all Muslims follow. The fast lasts from sunrise to sunset, during which Muslims refrain from food and drink. “WAIT, EVEN WATER?” Yes, even water. And no, they don’t sneak snacks when no one’s looking.
But fasting is more than just abstaining from eating and drinking. Fasting builds discipline and patience by strengthening self-control and willpower. It encourages gratitude by helping individuals appreciate their blessings. It promotes empathy by reminding Muslims of those who struggle with hunger and poverty, which is why giving zakat (charity) is emphasized during this time. Most importantly, it deepens faith, bringing Muslims closer to God through prayer and reflection.
“Ramadan is a time of self-discipline, reflection, and strengthening my faith. It teaches patience, gratitude, and giving back. It connects me to my faith, family, and Palestinian culture through prayer, Iftar, and Suhoor. It is a month of renewal, seeking forgiveness, and self-improvement,” expressed Sanger High School student Salam Mohamed.
Fasting is a test of both the body and soul. It challenges individuals to control their desires, avoid negative behaviors, and focus on self-improvement. It also strengthens community bonds, as families and friends gather to break their fast together.
“Ramadan always comes when we need it most. It heals our souls and brings us closer!” said freshman Zahra Saad.
Believe it or not, many people have thought muslims fast the entire month continuously—which is absolutely impossible! Each day of fasting begins before dawn with a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor, giving energy for the day ahead. The collective struggle of waking up for Suhoor is real. Some eat half-asleep, hoping they made the right food choices. The fast is then broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, often starting with dates and water, just as the Prophet Muhammad did. Fun fact: You never realize how many food commercials exist until you’re fasting. Your entire FYP will be filled with nothing but recipes, mukbangs, and restaurant reviews.
The start of the holy month of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. The Islamic calendar, based on the moon cycles, varies from 29 to 30 days. As a result, the start and end of Ramadan can vary each year. Once the crescent moon is seen, Muslims mark it as the start of the Islamic lunar month, and the month-long fast commences. As Ramadan nears its end, the sighting of the next crescent moon signals the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, one of the two main religious holidays in Islam.
Ramadan is more than a month of fasting—it is a time of spiritual renewal, generosity, and devotion. “It is a time to grow closer to Allah, to improve myself religiously, and to focus on what really matters in life,” said freshman Amir Awawda. Whether through prayer, charity, or self-reflection, Muslims around the world embrace this month as a path to personal and spiritual growth.
