Exploring Ramadan: A Journey of Fasting from Afghanistan to Auckland

Auckland Muslims are preparing to observe Ramadan, which starts this year with a fast lasting about 14 hours. The significance of Ramadan is highlighted by the experiences of individuals from Afghanistan, who emphasize the hardships faced during fasting. The month is dedicated to spiritual renewal, charity, and compassion, illustrating the core values of the Islamic faith as well as the diverse experiences surrounding Ramadan.

In Auckland, Kiwi Muslims are set to commence their first fast of Ramadan, which begins approximately 14 hours later than it has in the last two decades. The Islamic month of Ramadan started on Sunday, as confirmed by the Federation of the Islamic Associations (FIANZ). The timing of Ramadan is based on the lunar Hijri calendar; fasting begins at sunrise and concludes at sunset, adhering to the sighting of the new moon over a span of 29 or 30 days until Eid al-Fitr heralds the end of fasting.

Due to the lunar calendar shifting about 10-12 days earlier each Gregorian year, Ramadan will occur during New Zealand’s summer months in the coming years. Notably, Ramadan is anticipated to be observed twice in 2030. Although the fasting periods in New Zealand are shorter compared to countries like Iceland or Greenland, Auckland residents, Shookria and Enayatullah Basir, stress that the true essence of Ramadan lies in experiencing genuine hardship during this holy month.

Originating from Ghazni, Afghanistan, Mr. Basir remarks on the struggles faced by families in his homeland, particularly during Ramadan. He notes, “Here, we have a lot of comfortability, and we have plenty of food … You don’t really feel, in my point of view, the true test of Ramadan. We don’t feel that much hunger.” In contrast, families in Afghanistan often faced significant challenges, with many anxiously awaiting their fast to end each day.

Historically, rural Afghan families relied on roosters to signal the time for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal. Mr. Basir explains, “Every family or maybe one whole town had like two or three [roosters].” Those with roosters were responsible for waking their neighbors, creating a community effort centered around Ramadan. Without this natural alarm, families risked not having a meal before the daily fast began.

Shookria emphasizes the simplicity of pre-dawn meals, often consisting of just yoghurt and bread, with meat being a rare luxury. She reflects, “I remember we didn’t have meat. We used to have meat once a month … and that was it.” This underscores Ramadan’s purpose: to focus on basic sustenance rather than overindulgence, as some may experience in more affluent conditions.

Ramadan serves to empower individuals to confront their difficulties, cultivate appreciation for food, and develop a sense of gratitude, as articulated by Shookria. She highlights, “It’s a month of patience, that they have no tensions. They become so much more calmer with people.” During this time, even those with limited resources often choose to assist the less fortunate, driven by a sense of community and shared faith.

In addition to fasting, Muslims engage in spiritual renewal through prayers, reading the Qur’an, charitable giving, and fostering forgiveness. This month is revered because it commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago. Fasting, among other practices, is one of the five essential pillars of Islam, mandated for all able Muslims, excluding children, the elderly, the ill, or pregnant women.

In conclusion, Ramadan presents an opportunity for Muslims to deepen their spiritual connections while enduring fasting that ranges from 14 hours in Auckland to longer durations in other nations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and gratitude for one’s blessings, fostering a sense of community and compassion. By reflecting on their experiences, individuals like Shookria and Enayatullah Basir illustrate the profound challenges and lessons imbued within this sacred month.

Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz