Ramadan Comes to a Close

By Tayeb Rahman
Staff Writer | The Pacific Times

The month of Ramadan is coming to a close on April 10. Muslim students have been fasting from water and food to partake in Sawm, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

Ramadan begins on the day when a crescent moon is sighted and it is based on the lunar calendar. Fasting will end on the day of Eid ul Fitr, a celebration of breaking the fast. It is a celebration where family and friends gather together. People dress in their best clothes and gifts are exchanged.

“I look forward to spending time with my family,” said junior Wishmah Faisal.

Ramadan is a month of devotion in which Muslims fast to face hunger and thirst. This makes them grateful and more inclined to give to the needy.

“During Ramadan, I feel more grateful for the things I have,” said junior Mustafa Ghulam Sakhi. “I look forward to being with family and friends for Iftar and celebrating Eid with them.”

“I’m excited to improve on my deen (religion) and eat good food,” said junior Shazir Mahmood, one of the leaders of Muslim Student Association.

It is the holiest month of the year for Muslims because it is when the Quran, the holy book, was revealed.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims fast starting from sunrise and eat Iftar, the meal that breaks their fast, at sunset. Iftar is typically a big meal eaten with family. People also go to Masjids where Iftar is provided.

“I’m looking forward to the samosas,” said junior Aahil Iqbal.

After Iftar, many Muslims perform Taraweeh prayer. Taraweeh is a prayer done every night either at home or the Masjid.

“I look forward to going to the Masjid to see everyone gather every day as a community throughout the whole month for Taraweeh,” said senior Hadia Ahmad.

If you want to wish someone a happy Ramadan, say “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem.” Wishing someone a happy Eid is said, “Eid Mubarak.”