Ramadan 2024

 

Ramadan Mubarak! Ramadan is March 10 through April 9 this year. This is one of the holiest months of the year and is a time when Muslims observe a fast from dawn until sunset, and engage in introspection and prayer. 

Fasting is defined as no food or drink from before the first light of dawn until the setting of the sun. Commonly, daily fast is broken with Iftar, which is a community-focused meal where family members and friends come together to mark the occasion. 

It is important to know that there is significant diversity in how Ramadan is observed. For example, the start and end of Ramadan may be a matter of difference of opinion, and some may start and/or end on dates different from other students, staff, or faculty. The daily start and end of fasting may also differ according to interpretive schools. While some people may be comfortable speaking about whether or not they are fasting, the reasons for choosing to fast or not can be very personal and private, so in general, it is more considerate to not ask someone if they are fasting.

There are strong cultural traditions of breaking fast with dates and milk, rooted in religious traditions. However, there is enormous diversity in preferred Ramadan cuisines, particularly between choices for fast-breaking meals. In some places, restaurants and cafes stay open all night and a Ramadan night life emerges.

Culture plays an important role in determining how Ramadan is observed beyond fasting and fast-breaking. Some may see their primary observances to be fasting, but others may consider it a time for socializing, visiting family and friends, and increasing in acts of worship including prayer or reciting the Qur’an in its entirety over the course of the month.
Eid ul-Fitr, "the festival of the breaking of the fast," is celebrated at the end of Ramadan. 

For members of our community observing Ramadan, there are a variety of local and campus resources available, including support if Ramadan this year feels difficult or isolating:

• SCU Muslim Student Association gatherings
• Fasting hours and Iftar times around the world
• SCU Campus Ministry Religious Diversity and Interfaith Resources
• South Bay Islamic Association Iftars and Resources
• SCU Counseling and Psychological Services

 

 

NOTE: Today is International Women’s Day! Missed our International Women’s Day holiday announcement earlier this week? Read it on our website.

 

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