On Wednesday, April 5, 2023, Manar Al-Gburi, a sophomore, shares her thoughts and opinions about the primarily Muslim celebrated “holiday” called Ramadan which began on the evening of Wednesday, March 22, 2023, and will end on the evening of Thursday, April 20, 2023.

Q: What is Ramadan?

A: Ramadan is a month of worship for Muslims where they fast from sunrise to sunset.

Q: When/how often does Ramadan happen?

A: Ramadan happens every year and progresses 10-12 days earlier each year. We follow the lunar cycle and wait for it to be announced by the mosque we follow.

Q: What are certain things you do to “participate” during Ramadan?

A: I usually wake up and eat before sunrise/fajir prayer and then fast until sunset/maghrib prayer.

Q: What are your opinions on Ramadan?

A: I love Ramadan, I feel more connected to my religion and family as I get to spend more time eating suhoor (eating before sunrise) and iftar (eating after maghrib prayer/breaking your fast) together which is something we do not do when it’s not Ramadan.

Q: Have you had any struggles since starting Ramadan?

A: I have had no struggles so far since Ramadan started, though I do feel more thirsty.

Q: Why is Ramadan so important?

A: Ramadan allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith, get closer to Allah and learn patience and compassion.

Q: How long have you been “celebrating” Ramadan?

A: I think around 8 years now.

Q: What are the certain benefits that come with celebrating Ramadan?

A: Helps your health, and mentality, and improves connections to religion

Q: Do you enjoy having to celebrate Ramadan every year? Do you ever dread when it comes closer?

A: I do like it, but sometimes I also don’t want it to come because I hate eating in the morning.

Q: If you could change anything about Ramadan, would you? And what would you change?

A: I would not change anything about Ramadan.