On March 1st, Muslims around the world will begin the first day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is a deeply spiritual and sacred time when Muslims engage in fasting, prayer, and reflection. It is believed that during this month, the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Ramadan provides an opportunity for Muslims to restore a sense of virtue and clarity between the body and mind, deepening their relationship with Allah (God) and practicing their Islamic duties.
During Ramadan, Muslims focus on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and charity. They refrain from sinful behavior such as cursing, gossiping, lying, smoking, fighting, and disrespecting others. It is also a time for Muslims to seek forgiveness, purify their hearts, and increase their acts of worship. Many Muslims aim to recite the entire Quran during this month and attend as many congregation prayers as possible at their local masjid (mosque). In the U.S. Virgin Islands, Masjid Nur is located on 8th Street in St. Thomas, and Masjid Abu Bakir Assidique is located on Route 85 in St. Croix.
Fasting: The Core of Ramadan
Fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a central practice during Ramadan. Muslims abstain from food, drink (including water), and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, fasting begins around 5:30 a.m. with the last sip of water and bite of food, and ends around 6:30 p.m. at iftar, the meal to break the fast.
The act of fasting fosters empathy for the less fortunate, increases gratitude, and promotes spiritual growth. In the mornings, Muslims have suhoor, a pre-dawn meal to help sustain them throughout the day. When the fast ends at sunset, Muslims gather with family and friends for iftar, a communal meal that marks the breaking of the fast.
Supporting Fasting Students in Schools
During Ramadan, it is important for the community to be mindful of the Muslims who are fasting, especially children in school. Fasting children may experience fatigue, hunger, or thirst during class, particularly as the day progresses or after physical activities like recess, especially if they are outdoors in the sun. Since Muslims are not allowed to drink water during fasting hours, teachers should be sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of fasting students.
Here are some tips for teachers to support fasting students:
- Adjust Expectations: Understand that fasting students may need extra support with concentration and energy. Encourage breaks and avoid scheduling strenuous activities.
- Be Flexible: Allow accommodations during lunchtime or physical education classes, as fasting students will not be eating or drinking.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Encourage other students to be considerate by not eating or drinking in front of their fasting peers. Providing a private and safe space during lunch hours for fasting students can also help.
- Check in Regularly: Take the time to check in with fasting students throughout the day to assess how they’re feeling, especially in the afternoon when energy levels may dip.
Extending Warm Wishes for Ramadan
Despite the challenges that come with fasting, Ramadan is one of the most humbling and rewarding months for Muslims. It is a time to reflect on one’s spiritual journey, grow closer to Allah, and give to those in need.
To all Muslims in the U.S. Virgin Islands, “Inshallah” (God willing), this month will be filled with purity and good health. May Allah shower you, your families, and your friends with blessings and answer all your prayers.
To non-Muslims, feel free to send a message to your Muslim friends wishing them well by saying “Cul sana wa entee salama” (for a female friend) or “Cul sana wa enta salam” (for a male friend). This is a phrase we use right before Ramadan to wish each other a happy and peaceful holiday. You can also say “Kull ‘am wa antum bikhayr” (May you be well every year), a heartfelt wish for happiness and well-being during Ramadan.
—Dr. Nour Z. Suid, PsyD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who was born and raised in the Virgin Islands. She graduated with her doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Suid is currently working as a mental health counselor at Serenity Wellness & Counseling.
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
