As Ramadan, the most sacred month of the Islamic calendar, quickly approaches, it brings with it an emphasis on faith and introspection. It invites us to reflect and reconnect not only with our faith, but with one another. Working toward bettering ourselves through character and humility becomes integral as we embrace this holy month.
More than just a month of fasting, Ramadan is devoted to strengthening our connection with Allah (SWT*) and expressing our faith through community. As we prepare for the sighting of the crescent moon — the official indication of the beginning of Ramadan — we invite our community to join us in observance. Through prayer, introspection and unity, each one of us can foster growth in our spirit. This month reminds us that our faith is reaffirmed when it is shared, and our growth is strengthened by presence, care and mercy. The Quran entrusts us to nurture our communities with mercy — “The believers are but one brotherhood, so make peace between your brothers” (49:10).
What Is Ramadan?
The ninth and most holy month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is an opportunity for Muslims to pursue change and attain mercy from Allah (SWT). Commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW**), Muslims are obligated to fast from sunrise to sunset, fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam.
Fasting as a practice has applications beyond that of abstaining from food and drink for an allotted period. The abstention of ill speech, sin and distractions from the remembrance of Allah (SWT) are all attributes of sawm (fasting).
Beginning with a predawn meal known as suhoor and ending with a meal at sunset known as iftar, fasting aims to instill self-discipline and empathy in individuals. It serves as a means of reflection on one’s blessings while strengthening connection not only to Allah (SWT), but to each other. Exemptions are made for children, the elderly, pregnant women and the ill, who are instead encouraged to focus on strengthening faith through prayer, charity, good deeds and reading of the Quran.
Prayer, Reflection and Mindfulness
Ramadan is a time for growth, encouraging more consistent and meaningful prayer, charity and supplication. The habits we cultivate this month become integral aspects of worship and faith to abide by even after Ramadan has ended. Sunset marks the end of the fasting period every day, at which, per the practice of the Prophet Muhammed (SAW), Muslims break their fast with a date.
Following Isha, the final obligatory prayer of the day shortly after iftar, Muslims are invited to engage in Taraweeh. This is a voluntary congregational prayer extending the opportunity for significant rewards as well as further reflection and connection with the Quran and Allah (SWT). Standing in congregation nightly reinforces the sense of community and togetherness that constitutes Ramadan.
Ramadan concludes in the same manner in which it commenced — with the sighting of the new crescent moon. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast, marks the end of Ramadan. It honors spiritual renewal and brings families and communities together once more to rejoice after a month of devotion.
Opportunities for Engagement
The personal and spiritual significance of Ramadan is one that we as Muslims are encouraged to share with everyone around us. Beyond those of the Muslim faith, Ramadan encourages an air of introspection and growth, reminding us of our commitments as individuals leading in faith and service. The University of Dayton’s Muslim Student Association invites the community to learn, reflect and share in the participation of this sacred month.
Throughout Ramadan, several opportunities for engagement will be available throughout campus:
- Ramadan book display: Visit Roesch Library to explore a curated collection of books as well as Islamic artifacts (Feb. 16-March 2).
- Ramadan activity table: Engage in a mindfulness exercise and pick up a Ramadan-themed coloring sheet on the first floor of Roesch Library (Feb. 16-20).
- Friday prayers: Community members are welcome to attend and observe Friday prayers held at the Rike Center (1:30-2:30 p.m.).
- Ramadan celebration: Join the Ramadan Celebration Community Iftar 5-6 p.m. Thursday, March 5 (registration available through 1850).
- Follow @udcampusministry and @ud_msa for future Ramadan posts and opportunities.
About the Muslim Student Association
The Muslim Student Association is a diverse group of Muslims on campus coming together to promote peace and interreligious dialogue. Members strive to make a positive impact on the community by hosting lectures, group discussions, charity events and more to highlight the Muslim perspective at the University of Dayton.
Faith is a bridge inviting mindfulness and unity while reminding us that progress is greatest when we move toward it together.
* Initialism for Subhanahu wa ta’ala, meaning, “Glory be to Him, the Exalted”; a sign of reverence and praise to God
** Initialism for Sallallahu alaihi wasallam, meaning, “Peace and blessings of Allah upon him”; an Arabic honorific for the Prophet (PBUH).
— Bushra Hennaoui is a first-year biology major from Dayton and the secretary of the Muslim Student Association.