Ramadan is normally a time to come together, meet extended family, and pray together in the mosque. This Ramadan will be a lot different: mosques will be closed and the government has been telling us to stay home and save lives.
It’s going to be tough: there won’t be many around the table, you won’t stand shoulder to shoulder with others in prayer, but you will be carrying out your duty as a Muslim by staying mainly at home and going out primarily to support others.
Osman Dar, Consultant in Global Health at Public Health England, said: “Ramadan is a time for prayer, contemplation, self-sacrifice and charity – all of these qualities are key to supporting our collective effort in tackling this pandemic. This Ramadan, let’s think about how we can best protect the most vulnerable in our families, amongst our neighbours and in all our diverse communities. By working together we can minimise the transmission of coronavirus and reduce the chances of overwhelming our health and care services. Let us not forget the deeply spiritual reminders this pandemic brings; unite, pull together and leave nobody behind insha’Allah.”
There are further options, such as virtual iftar [breaking fast at sunset] with loved ones. You can join in on prayers online, too. Religious talks will be offered on social media platforms and companies such as EidParty.co.uk are still open and sending out Ramadan decorations.
Whatever the circumstances, piety can still prevail!
