Muslims across the UK will be observing Ramadan from approximately 11th March to 10th April. We spoke to UCL Islamic Society (ISOC) to learn more about this observance, and how TeamUCL sports clubs can support their Muslim members while they fast.
Can you tell us about Ramadan, what it means and when it's happening this year?
Ramadan is an important month in the Islamic calendar as it was the month in which the Qur’an, the Islamic holy book, was revealed. This year, it is expected to start on the 10th or 11th of March. The main aim during this month is for Muslims to develop a closer relationship with God. This is primarily achieved by fasting from before the break of dawn until sunset by abstaining from food and drink. Increasing in other acts of worship is also highly encouraged, including reciting the Qur’an and engaging in night prayer.
Why are moon sightings significant?
Moon sightings are crucial in starting and rounding off the blessed month of Ramadan. Since the Islamic Calendar follows the lunar year, the sighting of the new moon indicates the start of the new month. In particular, it tells us what day to begin our fasts and what day Ramadan ends- the blessed day of Eid.
Many sporting societies will have Muslim athletes and may be worried about how to support them this Ramadan. But there is no need to stress. The main thing your Muslim teammates want from you is your understanding.
What is Iftar, and can I come to one if I am not Muslim?
Muslims break their fast after sunset every day of Ramadan at a meal called ‘iftar’. This usually consists of some dates and water. Dates are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium and iron and are high in sugar, so provide a quick energy boost when on an empty stomach. After breaking the fast, Muslims observe the evening prayer- the 4th of 5 prayers per day. This year, UCL Islamic Society is also providing hot meals every evening after this prayer. If you would like to join us to eat together, feel free to come down to B2 in the Student Centre at sunset and we can take you to the correct location for the day.
If you have training sessions or fixtures during sunset, your members may need a break, or to leave early, for iftar and evening prayer.
If you're a sports club with Muslim members, you could think about hosting a meal after evening prayer as an alcohol-free social.
What is Eid al-Adha, and how is it different from Eid al-Fitr?
“Eid” means celebration, and Eid-ul-Fitr is one of 2 Eids per year. It is the first Eid of the Islamic year and comes the day after Ramadan ends. Muslims from around the world greet each other with ‘Eid Mubarak’ and pray that God accepts their efforts from them. The purpose of this Eid is to celebrate the strength of completing Ramadan. There are many traditions to it, including waking up early, performing Eid prayer in congregation, performing ablution, preparing the best clothes, sitting down with family and friends, donating in charity, greeting fellow Muslims and enjoying time with family.
Any advice for clubs and societies supporting fasting members? Any advice for fasting athletes?
Many sporting societies will have Muslim athletes and may be worried about how to support them this Ramadan. But there is no need to stress. The main thing your Muslim teammates want from you is your understanding. Understanding that we might have to miss training sessions and fixtures and that we might not be able to give 100% when we are there; understanding that we probably don’t want to come to as many socials as we want to focus on ourselves and our own spiritual development during this month; understanding that we still are passionate about the club and want to take part but will have to prioritise other matters during this month. And no, we can’t even drink water :)
How can people learn more about Ramadan?
If you are interested in learning more about Ramadan, there are many Muslims on campus who would be more than happy to answer any questions anyone may have. You can also find information from various sources such as reputable websites like islam21.com or from books written by scholars on the topic. You can also visit local mosques or Islamic centres where they often hold informational sessions or provide literature about Ramadan. Additionally, there are numerous online forums and social media groups where individuals share insights and experiences related to Ramada