Tommy OlovssonRamadan denotes an Islamic tradition that calls upon able-bodied Muslims of sound mind to observe Roza, a fasting ritual in the Islamic calendar’s holy month. The following presentation will help you prepare for a successful Ramadan in 2021.
Persons from countries across the Eastern Mediterranean Region sharing their plans for a healthy and COVID-19 safe Ramadan in 2021
When does Ramadan begin In 2021?
Ramadan comes on the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar cycle. As such, it arrives ten days earlier than the previous year when viewed in the Gregorian calendar. This year, the holy month of Ramadan will commence on Monday 12th April, when the crescent moon is seen over Mecca. It will end on Tuesday 11th May after 30 days.
What Are You Expected To Do during Ramadan?
When the Holy Month commences, you are expected to avoid food and any sexual activity. Instead, you should partake more in praying, reading the Quran, and engaging in virtuous deeds like charity.
Fasting, also known as Sawm, begins every day at sunrise and ends at dusk. It essentially starts after consuming a pre-dawn meal known as suhoor, right before Fajr, the morning prayer. Sawm ends after the sunset prayer (Maghrib) and gives Muslims an opportunity to enjoy the evening meal (iftar).
Who Should Fast?
Every Muslim past puberty who’s able-bodied and of sound mind is required to fast. The sick, old, pregnant, and women in their menses are exempted from fasting. However, this group is expected to make up for the fast later, except for the elderly and people living with chronic illnesses like diabetes.
Ending the Fast
Ramadan ends on Eid al-Fitr, which means the Festival of Breaking the Fast. This year, Eid al-Fitr will come on the 12th or 13th of May. This day is observed with great feasting, socializing among friends and family, and gifting kids with new clothes and presents. On this day, Muslims worldwide share food with the needy, regardless of the latter’s religious background.
The Corona Effect
This year, the pandemic casts its shadow over the celebration of Ramadan. Remeber, the safest way to host social events is virtually — or just with the people you live with, avoid large gatherings and events.
In-person events, especially those that are crowded and held indoors with poor ventilation, vastly increase the risk of COVID-19 spreading.
Images: Ibrahim.ID & Mohsen Karam-Ali & Zoheir Seidanloo & Zafeerrais
