You may have heard of the spiritual daily routines, prayers, and fastings that characterize Ramadan in the past. Officially the ninth month of the Islamic calendar — from Feb. 17 to Mar. 19 this year — Muslims worldwide commemorate this period with traditions. Hear from four Oxford students as they describe their experiences with this sacred holiday.
Serina Redwan, 10th Grade:
What stories do you have about past Ramadan celebrations?
“My first ever Ramadan I fasted, I was 7 years old and I had completed Ramadan all thirty days. I was so proud of myself I could talk about it forever because it’s an accomplishment to be able to fast for almost the entire day. On Eid, I got a nice gift from my mom and money as a reward for being able to fast.”
How would you describe Ramadan to someone unfamiliar with this holiday?
“As non Muslims have the countdown until Christmas Day, we have the countdown until Ramadan, fasting and praying until we get to Eid day! Where we get presents, money, eat our favorite foods, mamool date sweets, and so on!”
Who do you celebrate Ramadan with?
“I spend Ramadan with my family and friends. It is really important to be with family and go to the mosque and pray Taraweeh [night prayers]. Eating Iftar [fast-breaking meal] every night together as a family, making suhoor [meal eaten before dawn] together.”
Ramisa Alam, 11th Grade:
How would you describe Ramadan to someone unfamiliar with this holiday?
“I would say that it’s about being grateful for what you have, because you can’t eat
or drink anything, so you become really aware of the people who don’t have this ever,”
What do you think is an important part of these celebrations?
“Another big part of Ramadan is giving to charity. So you pick a charity, and you give a certain amount of money to that charity, and kind of just be grateful for what you have.”
Noor Ibrahim, 7th Grade:
How do you celebrate Ramadan?
“I celebrate Ramadan by fasting from sunrise to sunset, praying more often, reading the Qur’an, and spending time reflecting on my faith. I also break my fast with my family at iftar each evening.”
What stories do you have about past Ramadan celebrations?
“One of my favorite memories is gathering with family and friends for iftar and staying up late talking and laughing together.”
Lara Sharif, 9th Grade:
Who do you celebrate Ramadan with?
“I celebrate Ramadan with my friends, family and my local masjid, whom I consider family as well. I volunteer there often as a Girl Scout troop leader and also for countless other events whether I’m helping set tables and chairs or just selling food.”
How would you describe Ramadan to someone not familiar with the holiday?
“If someone were to ask me about Ramadan I’d tell them that it has the same jolly feeling that Christmas has. Not to say that Muslims don’t always get together to act on their best behavior; but Ramadan is just that time where we’re all united in fasting and helping those in need. It’s a holiday with a sole purpose of strengthening faith and understanding amongst a community.”
