“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may learn piety and righteousness” [2:183]
Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic calendar when Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is one of the 5 pillars of Islam.
The month of Ramadan is about restoring, renewing and strengthening links with God (Allah). It is a deeply spiritual month that Muslims look forward to every year. During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to increase their good deeds, from acts of charity and community engagement to increasing good values such as generosity, solidarity, kindness, patience, and forgiveness.
A second Ramadan in lockdown is upon us, and with exams, assignments and dissertation deadlines around the corner, things may become overwhelming, and it can be a lonely and isolating experience. Due to restrictions, many will find it difficult to pray together in Mosques or join their neighbours and families for the evening iftar meal. We recognise that for many, Ramadan may be harder this year, as loved ones might be missing around the table.
As your Students’ Union, we recognise the impact all of this has on our Muslim community. We encourage students to prepare ahead by setting smaller and more achievable goals.
Here are some tips we encourage fasting students to take into consideration:
- Adjust your routine: Your routine will chance once Ramadan begins. You might prefer to structure your day differently, e.g. you could revise in the morning and nap in the afternoon.
- Revise differently: Revising on an empty stomach can make it harder to concentrate, so it might not be the best idea to try and memorise from a textbook or read through dense notes. Condense essential information in a way that makes it easier to absorb, using revision cards or mind-maps.
- Eat well: It goes without saying that when you’ve been hungry all day, you’ll want to eat something tasty for dinner. However, we’d encourage students to stay away from food that will leave you feeling lethargic and lazy.
- Refocus: Students may feel that they’re missing out on the spiritual benefits of Ramadan because of exams and deadlines. Don’t forget that studying can be spiritual too and education is an important part of Islam! Renew your intentions and stack on those good deeds!
For more Ramadan resources:
FOSIS Ramadan guide: UPDATED Printable Ramadan Guide 2020.pdf - Google Drive
Ramadan fasting timetable: Muslim prayer | Student Hub | City, University of London
Student duas: 11 Duas and Supplications for Exams and Deadlines | Amaliah
We pray that those observing Ramadan find peace, contentment, connection and healing. Ramadan Mubarak.