As Ramadan, the holiest month of the year for Muslims, begins soon we thought we’d share with you some more information about what it is and how you can support our colleagues who are taking part.
As Muslims follow the lunar calendar Ramadan will last for either 29 or 30 days.
So, for those of you who don’t know, what is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims believe it is the month during which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) over 1400 years ago. Ramadan is the holiest month of the year for Muslims and it is considered that the reward of good deeds during this month are multiplied several fold.
During Ramadan, from dawn until sunset, Muslims are expected to abstain from all forms of food, drink (including water), smoking and sexual intercourse. Most Muslims will wake before dawn for a meal before the start of their fast, and break their fast with dates and water at sunset and a meal thereafter. This year, fasts in the UK will last around 15-16 hours. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. The overall purpose of the fast is to gain Taqwa (which means to gain piety or God consciousness). This is achieved through an increase in prayers, reading the Qur’an, self-reflection and self-discipline. Muslims are encouraged to increase their good deeds in Ramadan, from giving to charity to increasing good values such as generosity, patience and forgiveness, with the intention that they strive to maintain these values throughout the year.
End of Ramadan celebrations – Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr is the festival which marks the end of Ramadan, and this year will take place on or around Tuesday 4 June 2019. It is a joyous occasion and a day of true thanksgiving for Muslims. The day begins with giving to charity and prayers in the Mosque, and thereafter Muslims share celebratory meals with family and friends and exchange gifts. As with the start of Ramadan, the exact date of Eid is also dependent on the sighting of the moon.
Being mindful to colleagues
We want to make sure all colleagues can bring their whole selves to work which is why it’s important to be considerate of people taking part in Ramadan. Here are a few things to be considerate of during this month:
- Although most of our Muslim colleagues will continue with their normal duties there may be some who wish to have some flexibility with their working arrangements.
- Employees who are taking part may wish to take leave during Ramadan or to celebrate Eid.
- They may also wish to complete prayers during their normal working day.
- During Ramadan Muslim colleagues won’t eat so please be mindful if you’re scheduling in team lunches/ away days or training courses.
If you’re observing Ramadan we’re committed to help make it easier for you to do so. Therefore if you need to make any changes please discuss this with your line manager.
For further guidance click here and for links to additional articles and resources click here.
And finally, why not join us in wishing Ramadan Mubarak (Happy Ramadan) to our Muslim colleagues.