Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2025

Talia, Zane and Leila delivered an insightful presentation in Chapel about Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, two significant observances in the Islamic faith. Let's dive into the heart of these celebrations!

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, a time when Muslims worldwide come together to fast, pray and reflect. The tradition of fasting during Ramadan has roots in early Islamic history with some Arab tribes practicing fasting for spiritual cleansing even before Islam. The revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammed emphasized the importance of fasting during Ramadan as a means of cultivating patience and spiritual growth. 

The students explained two key daily practices during Ramadan: Suhoor and Iftar. Suhoor is the meal consumed before sunrise to prepare for the day's fast. It must be completed before the first prayer of the day (Fajr) and sunrise. Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. It's common for Muslims to start Iftar with a date and many families prepare special dishes for the occasion. Leila, Talia and Zane shared that their family enjoys foods like meat and veggie samosas, savory pastries, fruit salad and pakora.  

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It helps Muslims develop God-consciousness (Taqwa) and offers various physical and health benefits. While fasting is expected of all Muslims, there are exceptions for children, the elderly and individuals with health conditions that make fasting difficult.  

Talia, Zane and Leila also highlighted the importance of Laylat al-Qadr, which translates to "The Night of Power.” This night falls within the last ten nights of Ramadan, believed to be on an odd-numbered night (the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th), although its exact date is unknown. Laylat al-Qadr is considered better than 1,000 months, signifying that prayers during this time are highly rewarding.  

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of celebration. Muslims celebrate by visiting friends and family. The day typically begins with a special Eid prayer at the mosque. Gift-giving is a common tradition, especially for children who often receive special gifts and money.  

The presentation also explored diverse Eid al-Fitr traditions across different regions:

• Middle East: Traditions include special Eid prayers, charity, family feasts with traditional foods and children receiving money. In Gulf countries, Eid celebrations can last for about three days.  
• South Asia: In countries like Pakistan and India, the night before Eid is known as Chaand Raat (Night of the Moon), where people look for the moon and women apply henna. In Bangladesh, people return to their hometowns for large prayer gatherings.  
• Africa: In Somalia, families gather for meals and children receive new clothes and small gifts. In Egypt, people bake special cookies, visit relatives and children receive new clothes and gifts.  
• Southeast Asia: In Indonesia and Malaysia, the celebratio is called Hari Raya Aidilfitri, with traditions including visiting graves, cleaning homes and preparing traditional dishes. In the Philippines, families gather for feasts, prayers and festivals.  
• Europe: In Turkey, Eid is called Bayram and traditions include cleaning, prayers and public celebrations. 
• North America: Eid celebrations include large prayers in parks and mosques, community feasts, charity drives and multicultural events. Families also gather for feasts and prayers.

One of the most inspiring ways that Leila and Talia are marking Ramadan is an initiative called "Project Ramadan," where they made Iftar packages for those in need, filling bags with items like honey, tea, chickpeas, oil, kidney beans, salt, and flour. As a family, they help their parents prepare Iftar. Talia and Leila are looking forward to attending a Chaand Raat event to apply mehndi (henna) and look for the new moon.  

Talia, Zane, and Leila shared their personal experiences, making the event both informative and engaging. Their stories brought the traditions to life, allowing us to connect with the spirit of these special occasions. This latest celebration in our Chapel reflects our school’s commitment to promoting a sense of belonging, honouring diversity and fostering greater understanding and lifelong learning within our community.