On February 28, Muslims will celebrate one of the holiest months of the Islamic calendar — Ramadan. It is the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammed in A.D. 610, as “a guidance for men and women, a declaration of direction, and a means of salvation” (Quran, 2:185). During the month, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking in a daily fast from sunrise to sunset.
Waking up to the first fast — preparing to cleanse one’s body, fulfill their daily prayers, and become more aligned with their religion — is a peaceful and refreshing experience for many. However, non-Muslims may be under the impression that it is not. Ramadan, a month meant for religious connection, may be viewed as odd or bothersome due to misinformation and understanding.
A common shock to those who do not partake in Ramadan is the extent to which Muslims fast. Questions about the limitations of the fast might include the infamous “You can’t even drink water?” Renim Risku, a senior at B-CC, said, “People have always asked me if I could drink water during my fast, and when I say no, I’m normally met with confusion or surprise.” The concept of forgoing drinking even water may be understandably foreign; however, it is important to recognize why water, among other things, is not permitted during the fast.
In Islam, fasting is considered obligatory only for those who are medically fit and have reached an age of maturity, which is typically 15 years. This excludes those who are ill, frail, pregnant, traveling, very young, or those who harbor any other obstruction to fasting. For those who don’t fast, many other practices can strengthen religious connections and build up good deeds. Observing extra prayer or helping out with those who are fasting are two of the numerous actions that could still count towards observing the special month.
Some may think that Ramadan is a somber or burdensome period driven by hunger and discomfort. In reality, it is a deeply fulfilling time marked by togetherness, gratitude, and celebration. Families and friends gather for iftar, the evening meal, breaking their fast with warmth and laughter. Mosques and homes buzz with the spirit of charity, as giving to those in need is a central part of the month. Ramadan proves to be a highly social time for Muslims even while individuals focus on themselves to strengthen their connection to Allah (God).
Another common belief is that non-Muslims should refrain from eating in front of those who are fasting. But while it is considerate to be mindful, most Muslims do not expect others to change their routines. Instead, many appreciate when others show interest and respect for their observance. There also exists a narrative where Muslims can “eat while no one’s looking.” Fasting is a religious practice, and regardless if anyone is present, intentionally breaking one’s fast is essentially breaking off the religious connection with Allah and is a major sin in Islam.
Fasting is one of the five core principles of Islam — the principles that dictate one’s identity as a Muslim and follower of the Islamic faith. These five principles are commonly referred to as the Five Pillars of Islam: Shahadah (belief in one God), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (to fast), and Hajj (pilgrimage). They are mandatory for all able Muslims and form a significant aspect of each Muslim’s devotion to Allah.
Although there are many speculated reasons for why Allah has deemed fasting as one of the fundamental aspects of Islam, the primary explanation should be sourced directly from the Quran: “Allah thus clarifies His revelations to the people, that they may attain piety” (2:187).
Above all, Ramadan is a time of joy, reflection, and connection. It is a month that brings people closer to their faith, their loved ones, and their communities. Far from being a time of deprivation, it is a celebration of gratitude, self-improvement, and generosity. Understanding these aspects helps dispel misconceptions and allows everyone to appreciate the beauty of Ramadan.
