With the arrival of Ramadan, some people mainly expats may have some doubts regarding of the holy month of Ramadan.
What is Ramadan all about ? How to explain it to someone who’s not a Muslim?
Ramadan is a month of blessings, rewards, unity and above all it is a month of mercy and forgiveness. During Ramadan, we can seek forgiveness from Allah for all our past sins, and the position of the one who fasts in Ramadan is elevated. During the dya, we refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and intimacy with our spouse.
Freed from the preoccupation of satisfying our physical needs, we can focus on building our spiritual selves. It’s the perfect time for personal reflection, greater devotion to Allah and a means of learning self-control. The addition of extra prayers at night (Taraweeh), help strengthen our faith and willpower.
The whole community comes together to understand Islam better and improve on our way of living.
The Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) in this month and reading it and reflecting on its teachings, paying Zakat (giving charity to the poor), purifying one’s behaviour and doing good deeds, all encompass the purpose of Ramadan.
How should non-Muslims treat friends and colleagues observing the fast?
We should all be compassionate towards each other’s religions.
You should avoid eating. Drinking or smoking in front of fasting colleagues. This is the rule laid down by the UAE government as well. It’s prohibited to eat and drink in public.
Can non-Muslim get involved if they want to gain a better understanding of the religion?
Non- Muslim can use Ramadan to learn more about Islam and why Muslim fast. Various Islamic talks are held throughout the month with the aim of educating in this regard. They can also get to know their Muslim colleagues and friends better by sharing an Iftar meal with them. In this way, they will gain useful insights into the customs of the Muslim community.
What are the consequences if I drink water or eat a snack in public?
As per UAE law, eating and drinking is not allowed in public places during Ramadan. Violation is likely to earn you a warning, fine or even jail time.
It’s always best to follow the rules of the country we live in.
Are Muslims more tolerant of non-Muslims making mistakes during Ramadan these days?
Forgiveness and tolerance are major teachings of Islam best described in these verses of Qur’an: “There is no compulsion in religion” and “To you be your Faith, and to me mine”.
The Prophet (P.B.U.H) also warned against maltreatment of people of other faiths. He said: “Beware! Whoever is cruel and hard on a non Muslim minority, or curtails their rights, or burdens them with more than they can bear, or takes anything from them against their free will; I (Prophet Muhammad) will complain against the person on the Day of Judgment”.
