As our community became more diverse, I started hearing more and more about Ramadan celebrations. Not knowing what Ramadan is, I decided it was time to learn. As I read, I came to the conclusion that there were so many similarities between many different religious holidays. And I thought I'd share it here with you.
Ramadan is based on a Lunar calendar so the dates change every year (just like a Jewish holiday and Chinese holidays). In 2025 it is occurring February 28 beginning at Sunday and ending on March 30 at sundown. This is the holiest month for the people of Islam.
The holiday centers around five key themes and symbolic items.
The first is sawm which is fasting. Different than the Jewish people who fast for one day on Yom Kippuir or Catholics who give up a specific food item (typically) for Lent, for Ramadan you fast daily from sun up to sundown. Part of the purpose to learn or be reminded to be empathic to the less fortune.
The second theme is about prayer and worship, all of us, regardless of our religion, take part in prayer on holidays.
The third principal is zakat or charity, That's definitely something we can all get behind from our own hearts, to similarity of tithing in the church.
The fourth theme is about family and community, which of us don't love that.
The fifth pillar is about self improvement, practicing patients, kindness, and gratitude. No religion needed here just better for you and all of man kind.
So how could Ramadan impact your children's friends or your colleagues? It means people have commitments every evening for that month. Also many of us when we fast get hungry late in the day, which often makes us tired and maybe even irritable. While, young children are exempt from fasting, children often want to emulate older siblings, and parents and begin fasting in earlier ages. That can mean your child's friends are a little grumpy in the afternoon. If you are a PTO leader, scout leader or other community leader, you may want to look at your events calendar carefully. Make sure the timing allows these children to get home on time and not have to skip special events.
Like most holidays, there's always an element about food and for Ramadan it is called Iftar, which is the breaking of fast each day which often has dates and water as the key elements. Ramadan meal traditions varied in different parts of Africa, Asia and the Middle East all have different main course but one thing they have in common is desserts of sweet treats, like baklava.
One thing I love about the holiday is the distinct look of the fanous , the lanterns. The lanterns symbolize coming together for spiritual enlightenment or guidance, and also a glow of light indicating warmth, hospitality and joy, inviting neighbors to celebrate with you.
I hope you see so many great parts of Ramadan now that you know a little more.
Why not download our Deeds Cards with some great examples for your children and space to make your own. Regardless of your personal beliefs, every day is a great day to practice good deeds for others. These activities help instill values of empathy, generosity, and kindness, all central to Ramadan's spirit! If everybody did it, the world would be a better place one person at a time.
Ramadan Mubarak - happy Ramadan to all our readers who celebrate!
