The MPA Observes Ramadan – 28 February

Ramadan is the holy month in Islam, characterised by prayer, fasting, reflection and community. Ramadan is determined by the sightings of the moon, this year it is expected that Ramadan will begin on the evening of 28 February.

Ramadan is the 9th month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a time for focusing on spirituality, practising self-discipline, and growing closer to God. It’s not just about abstaining though; it’s also about kindness, charity, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Please see below how to support staff and colleagues during the holy month.

The Meaning of Ramadan

Ramadan commemorates the month when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). For Muslims, it is a period of fasting from dawn to sunset, where they abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs to purify the soul and draw closer to Allah. Beyond fasting, it is also a time for prayer, Quran recitation, charity, and acts of kindness.

The Significance of Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan, known as Sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the fundamental acts of worship in the faith. This practice is not just about physical abstinence but also about spiritual growth. It serves as a reminder of the struggles of those less fortunate and inspires gratitude and compassion.

The pre-dawn meal, called Suhoor, and the meal to break the fast, Iftar, are significant daily rituals. Families and friends often gather for Iftar, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude.

Key Practices During Ramadan:

1. Increased Worship: Muslims perform additional prayers, including Taraweeh, held after the Isha prayer each night.
2. Charity and Generosity: Zakat giving to those in need and voluntary charity, or Sadaqah, each hold special importance, emphasizing care for those in need.
3. Quran Recitation: Many Muslims strive to complete the entire Quran during the month, reflecting on its teachings.
4. Self-Reflection: Ramadan is a time to cultivate patience, humility, and mindfulness, avoiding negative behaviours like gossip or anger.

Supporting Colleagues During Ramadan:

Ramadan can be a physically and mentally demanding time for those observing it, especially in workplace settings. Here are practical ways you can support your colleagues during this holy month:

1. Be Mindful of Meetings and Events: Try to avoid scheduling important meetings or team-building events during Iftar or Suhoor times and be understanding if your colleagues’ energy levels fluctuate during fasting hours.
2. Respect Fasting Practices: Avoid offering food or drinks to those who are fasting and try not to eat or drink visibly in shared spaces if you know colleagues are fasting.
3. Provide Flexibility: Where possible, offer flexible working hours to accommodate prayer times or early departures to prepare for Iftar.
4. Create an Inclusive Environment: Acknowledge Ramadan in internal communications, and create spaces where colleagues feel comfortable sharing their experiences.
5. Show Empathy and Support: Simply asking how you can help or wishing them “Ramadan Mubarak” can make a significant difference.

Eid-al-Fitr

Eid-al-Fitr is expected on 30 or 31 March, dependent on the moon sighting, this marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Eid can last for up to 3 days in some countries, although more typically the celebration will only be for one day. It can be translated as the “Festival of the Breaking of the Fast”. Eid is Allah’s reward for believers who fasted during this time.

The celebration begins at sunset on the night of the first sighting of the crescent moon, known as the Chand Raat. The customary Eid greeting is “Eid Mubarak”. The day is spent with family and friends, and it will include special prayers, acts of charity and plenty of food and drink.

Eid al-Fitr embodies the spirit of generosity, compassion, and thankfulness, symbolizing the culmination of a month of spiritual growth and devotion.

As Ramadan approaches, it serves as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, empathy, and gratitude. For Muslims, it’s a chance to renew their spiritual commitments and strengthen their relationship with Allah. For others, it offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the shared values of compassion and community.

If you would like to join our Faith and Belief Employee Network Group or Respect Employee Network Group please contact:

Helen Choudhury
Head of DEI, CSR and Wellbeing
[email protected]