Around Town!

Ramadan: An Overview
The hallways are buzzing, lockers are slamming, and lunchtime is in full swing—but for many
Muslim students, the cafeteria is the last place they want to be. As Ramadan begins, Muslims
around the world wake up before dawn to eat a meal called suhoor and then fast from food and
water from sunrise to sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is a crucial religious practice that aims to
cultivate self-control, patience, empathy for others, and a deeper connection to one's faith. While
fasting can be challenging, many Muslims view it as a meaningful and rewarding experience.
The word “Ramadan” comes from an Arabic root meaning “parched thirst” or “sun
‑baked
ground,” which reflects both the physical difficulty of fasting and the idea of spiritual cleansing.
Ramadan is considered the holiest month in Islam because it marks the time when the Qur’an
was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to
pray more frequently, give to charity, refrain from negative behavior, and cultivate kindness and
reflection.
Before exploring some of the diverse groups within Islam, it is important to note that Islam
includes many different traditions and interpretations. The following information is meant
to be educational and respectful, not biased toward or against any group.
Major groups in Islam
Sunni
Sunni Muslims are the largest group within Islam. They follow the teachings of the Prophet
Muhammad as passed down through the consensus of the broader Muslim community. During
Ramadan, Sunni Muslims fast daily, attend nightly Taraweeh prayers, and especially emphasize
acts of community charity and personal self‑improvement.
Shia
Shia Muslims share the core beliefs of Islam but differ mainly in religious leadership history.
Shia Muslims also observe Ramadan through fasting, prayer, and reading the Qur’an. Some
practices and prayer styles may differ slightly based on tradition.
Sufi
Sufism is a spiritual tradition within Islam that emphasizes inner faith, devotion, and closeness to
God. Sufi Muslims observe Ramadan while placing extra focus on meditation, prayer, poetry,
and spiritual reflection.
Ibadi
Ibadi Islam is a smaller branch found mainly in Oman and parts of East Africa. Ibadi Muslims
also fast during Ramadan and follow religious practices rooted in early Islamic history,
emphasizing moderation and community values.
Conclusion: Wrapping Up Ramadan
Ramadan ends with Eid al‑Fitr, a joyful celebration that marks the breaking of the fast. Families
and communities gather for prayer, share meals, give charity, and celebrate gratitude and
togetherness. Although Muslims may belong to different groups within Islam, Ramadan serves
as a unifying time of reflection, discipline, compassion, and faith for millions of people around
the world.