By Ramadan is a holy and sacred month in Islam. This is about fasting for a whole day and a month for spiritual growth. Yep! You heard it correctly. Furthermore, it also teaches you empathy, kindness toward others, discipline, and self-empowerment. Honestly speaking, if we talk about the significance of Ramadan, then one whole book is not enough. That’s how beneficial this month is. And if we talk about the UK, then even though it is a non-Muslim country, Ramadan is also a grand affair.
Well, for those who want to learn how Ramadan is celebrated in the UK in 2024, this guide is for you. Here, we will walk you through how Muslims in the UK enjoy this month, its significance, and when it will be celebrated. So, come on! Read our guide with full concentration because it will provide you with loads of knowledge about this great month.
Ramadan In The UK: What Is It & Its Significance:
Well, let’s learn about Ramadan from the start. For those without an idea, this is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It has an extraordinary place in the student’s heart. A fun fact is that this month, the Quran, the holy book of Muslims, was given to Prophet Muhammad SAW. Furthermore, you get close to Allah during Ramadan and foster deeper connections.
The primary purpose of this holy month is to fast from dusk to dawn.
Moreover, this encourages one to show gratitude towards whatever they have in life. Additionally, it instills a sense of tolerance and resilience. Ramadan also teaches you about diverse cultures, allowing you to have meaningful conversations with people from different faiths.
So, this was a brief overview of the importance of Ramadan in the UK. Now, let’s move to the next part and discover when and how you can celebrate it.
Ramadan In The UK: When & How To Celebrate:
When Is Ramadan In The UK 2024?
Well, for those wondering when this fasting month will start, it depends upon the moon sighting. According to it, the exact date that will commence this month is 11th March 2024. And, since it lasts 30 days, the end period is said to be 10th April 2024. Remember, the dates depend on the Islamic Hijri or, as we call it, the Lunar Calendar. Also, it changes every year.
1. How To Begin?
For those who do not know how fasting begins, there is no need to worry about it. We have gotten you covered. Here, we will tell you all about it!
Suhoor & Fajar Prayer:
Suhoor, or the pre-dawn meal, marks the start of your fasting. In Ramadan, you need to finish eating and drinking before the sunrise. And, since you would be avoiding food for the whole day, you should eat nutritious food that will keep you hydrated for a long time. Fajar is one of the five prayers Muslims offer throughout the day.
Day Time Fasting:
Once your fast starts, you are not allowed to drink, eat, or engage in any lousy activity throughout the day. Furthermore, it is not all about starving yourself. Instead, fasting in Ramadan teaches you discipline.
Also, by experiencing firsthand hunger and thirst, one learns about the daily struggles of those who can’t afford food. This makes them more empathetic and kind towards others.
Iftar:
AH! It is the most awaited time of the day for Muslims. Iftar is a meal where you break your fast. Here, families and communities come together and share meals and smiles. Furthermore, it also fosters a sense of unity.
Laylatul Qadr: The Best Ten Nights Of Ramadan:
Do you know that during Ramadan, the last ten days are critical and full of blessings for Muslims? It is said that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad SAW during these days.
2. Charity & Community:
This month is all about doing charitable acts right and left. You help those who are in dire need of help. Furthermore, it contributes to social responsibility.
Islam is a religion of peace. Ramadan is a prime example of this. As one gets to know about other cultures, it instills a deeper understanding. Also, it makes them more tolerant.
3. Spiritual Reflection & Purification:
Ramadan has immense significance in the realm of spiritual reflection and purification. This month is not all about fasting. Rather, it is to purify your soul, reflect on yourself, and grow. Muslims believe that by fasting, they become closer to God. Furthermore, it is also an incredible way of washing away all their sins.
They seek forgiveness from Allah and connect with their inner self by reading the Quran, praying five times, and contemplation.
4. Eid-UL-Fitr: The Festive Celebration:
During the whole Month of Ramadan, Muslims wait for this specific occasion. This festive celebration marks the end of the fasting and spiritual activities. Furthermore, this is considered a gift from God for being patient, kind, and compassionate to Muslims.
The day starts with Men praying the special Salat al-Eid prayer, arranged in the Mosque or Community Halls. After this, people engage with others, friends, and relatives and exchange gifts and greetings.
Ramadan In The UK: How To Celebrate It?
For those of you wondering how you can celebrate Ramadan in the UK, here are some tips for you. They include:
- For those residing in the UK, try connecting with a local mosque in your area. There you can engage in different activities
- Setting realistic goals is also one way you can celebrate Ramadan. Also, for students having difficulty in managing academics and fasting you can seek help with Nursing Assignment Helpers UK. They will guide you. The benefit of goal setting is that it will help you reflect on your spiritual journey and will contribute to your growth.
- Prepare your meals for both Suhoor and Iftar beforehand.
- Engage in charitable acts.
- Practice gratitude and learn to be more appreciative of the beauty of life and all your abundance.
Conclusion:
This brings us to the end of the guide. In the UK, Ramadan is all about spiritual reflection, bonding among communities, and being grateful. From engaging in charitable acts to enjoying the pre-dawn Suhoor meals, you can immerse yourself in the greatness of this month.