Every year, millions of Muslims around the world take part in Ramadan, a special month that is important in the Islamic faith. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is most famous for its daily fasting. During this time, Muslims do not eat or drink anything from sunrise to sunset. But Ramadan is not just about skipping meals, it is also about growing closer to God, helping others and spending time with family and friends.
Fasting during Ramadan, called “sawm,” is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. This means it is a key part of being Muslim. People who are old, sick, pregnant or young do not have to fast. For those who do fast, it can be challenging, but also rewarding.
Sophomore Mashal Taj participated in Ramadan with his family this year. He explained that his family woke up before sunrise to eat a meal called suhoor. After that, they wouldn’t eat again until sunset, when they all gathered to break their fast with a meal called iftar. “The first few days were really hard because I was hungry during school, [but] I felt proud of myself for making it through the whole month,” Taj said.
Fasting can teach patience and self-control. It also helps many kids learn what it means to be grateful. “After fasting all day, water and dates taste amazing. I realized how lucky I am to have food every day,” Taj said.
Ramadan isn’t just about fasting. It is also about being kind and helping others. Many families donate money or food to people in need. There are also special prayers called Tarawih that people can attend at night. For some, Ramadan is also a month to spend more time with relatives and friends, sharing meals and traditions.
Senior Agamraj Singh does not fast, but some of his close friends and family celebrate Ramadan. Singh enjoys learning about Ramadan from his friends. “My relatives fast, and we all eat iftar together when we visit them. [My friends] tell me about what it’s like to fast at school and how they look forward to breaking the fast. I think it’s cool how everyone supports each other,” Singh said.
Ramadan is a time to learn about different cultures and come together. “Even though I don’t fast, I like seeing the celebrations,” Singh said.
Ramadan ends with a big celebration called Eid al-Fitr. On Eid, people dress up in new clothes, visit friends and family, and eat special foods. Kids often get gifts or money called ‘Eidi.’ For many, Eid is their favorite part of Ramadan.
Whether someone is fasting or just joining in the celebrations, Ramadan is a time for reflection, kindness, and community. As Taj said, “It’s hard, but it brings everyone closer together.”
As Ramadan ends, many people feel a mix of emotions. Some are happy and excited for Eid, while others feel a little sad that the special month is over. Many kids say the lessons they learned like patience, gratitude, and helping others stay with them even after Ramadan. It’s a time that brings families and friends closer, and the memories made during Ramadan last all year.
