Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide. In the UK, it will begin on the evening of 1 March 2025 and end on the evening of 1 April, depending on the moon sighting.

Fasting (Sawm):

Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, pray, and reflect. Fasting is obligatory for all adult Muslims, with exceptions for those who are travelling, chronically ill, elderly, breastfeeding, pregnant, diabetic, or menstruating. Fasting times vary by location and season; local mosques can provide exact timings.

Daily Routine:

• Suhur: Pre-dawn meal before the first prayer (Fajr).
• Iftar: Meal to break the fast at sunset, followed by the evening prayer (Maghrib). It begins with eating dates and drinking water then prayer followed by a full meal.

During fasting hours, no food, water, chewing gum, smoking, or intimacy is allowed.

Significance:

Fasting is seen as an act of worship, bringing Muslims closer to God and fostering compassion for those in need. The spiritual rewards of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. It is also a month of prayer (salat) and Qur’an recitation, as the Qur’an was revealed during Ramadan.

Health Tips:

• Exempt individuals should not fast to avoid health risks.
• The body adapts to limited energy by using stored carbohydrates and fats.
• Mild dehydration, headaches, tiredness, and caffeine withdrawal may occur but usually ease over the month.
• Rehydrate and eat slowly at Iftar, focusing on fluids, fruits, vegetables, yogurt, soup, and stews. Avoid salty foods.
• For Suhur, choose high-fibre cereals, oats, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water during the night to stay hydrated.

Iftar at University:

Fasting at University can be challenging due to deadlines and classes. Breaking fast during Iftar can be difficult without family, but here are some tips:

• Break Fast Promptly: Eat something as soon as it’s time, typically water and dates or fruit.
• Plan Ahead: Plan your Iftar meal 2-3 hours in advance. Check your local mosque’s timetable for evening prayer (Maghrib) times.
• Community Events: Look for local mosque or University and Student’s Union events offering evening meals. There are many takeaways in Lincoln but remember to order in advance.
• Healthy Meals: Ensure meals are nutritious. Include fruits and vegetables and avoid overeating.
• Stay Connected: Keep in touch with family and friends. Consider virtual Iftar over Facetime, Skype, or Teams.
• Communicate with Tutors: Inform your tutors about fasting during Ramadan. Keep in regular contact to manage your studies effectively.

Remember, Ramadan is about finding peace in difficult times, as the Quran says, “after every difficulty follows ease” (Quran, 94:5).

Iftar with Flatmates:

• Inform and Involve: Let your non-Muslim flatmates know about Ramadan. Invite them to join you for Iftar, cooking and breaking fast together. It’s a great bonding and learning opportunity.
• Make Good Intentions: During Maghrib prayer, set positive intentions for your studies, health, and future. This helps improve your mindset and attitude.
• Rest: After breaking your fast and praying, take time to rest, pray, or read the Qur’an. Acknowledge when you need to rest, especially during the first weeks.
• Eat Small Meals Until Suhur: Suhur is the pre-dawn meal before Fajr prayer. Eat small, nutritious meals between Iftar and Suhur to stay energized. Drink plenty of water.

Eid al-Fitr:

Eid al-Fitr, the festival of Breaking the Fast, marks the end of Ramadan. It begins at sunset with the first sighting of the new crescent moon and can last up to three days. The celebration includes special prayers, often performed outdoors in Islamic countries. The day starts with prayer, followed by a big meal, gift exchanges, and visits to friends and family. People hug and create feelings of goodwill, setting aside animosity. Celebrations and foods vary by cultural background.

Zakat:

Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, is compulsory charity given during Ramadan. Muslims donate 2.5% of their net worth, excluding essential expenses, to those in need. Those unable to meet basic needs are exempt.

Significance of Iftar and Ramadan:

Iftar combines physical nourishment with a spiritual experience, fostering gratitude for God’s provisions. It provides energy and spiritual development, highlighting the importance of food and water. Ramadan is about bonding and putting others first.