To all of our Muslim friends, family, students, colleagues, faculty, and staff, Ramadan Mubarak! In the face of the tumult and tragedy currently impacting the Ummah and the Muslim world, we hope that this Ramadan brings you a sense of peace, hope, and joy.
Ramadan, for our readers who may not be familiar with Islam’s holy month, is the month in which the Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) received the revelation of the Quran from the angel Gabriel (Jibreel). Today, Muslims worldwide commemorate that miracle with a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and celebration. It is a time of spiritual growth, reflection, and devotion.
This holy month is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is a lunar calendar. This means that Ramadan happens at different times each year. This year it spans from March 10 through April 9, when it culminates in the holiday, Eid al-Fitr.
During Ramadan, Muslims focus on spiritual activities, including fasting, prayer, and recitation of the Quran. Fasting is one of the most important practices during Ramadan, and it involves abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours and celebrating with your community, friends, and family by night.
In addition to fasting, Muslims also engage in increased prayer during Ramadan. It is also a time for acts of charity and kindness, as Muslims are encouraged to be more compassionate and to care for the vulnerable during this holy month.
Regardless of your faith, caring and compassion are values that all can get behind. In this in mind, we hope all can celebrate the spirit of Ramadan by looking out for others and developing a sense of unity and community.
If you are interested in learning more about Islam and Ramadan, the library is well-stocked with resources about Islamic history, culture, belief, and practice around the world. You can get started with our research guide by clicking here.
Ramadan Mubarak!