Ramadan is an Islamic observation that occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The month is an important one because the Qur’an, the Muslim holy book, was revealed to Prophet Mohammed at this time. Muslims all over the world observe fast in order to reflect upon and worship God. Fasting teaches the importance of patience, sacrifice and humility.
During the holy month, Muslims ask for forgiveness for their past deeds, and seek guidance for forthcoming days. During this month, many students must balance schoolwork and classes along with a difficult time schedule for meals. They must wake before sunrise to eat and perform the morning prayers. From then on, food and drinks are prohibited until sunset. Traditionally, the fast is broken with a date, a fruit found on palm trees. “The people here respect me fasting,” says political science major Sarah Rahman.
Stony Brook University has a long tradition of supporting and respecting all cultures. “For the last 16 years, to have had people that were understanding, I have to credit President Kenny and Dean Stein and the Provost Office,” said Sister Sanaa Nadim, the chaplain for the Muslim Student Association.
The association is a home away from home for many students. “A Muslim community, a home,” said Nadim.
During Ramadan, the association holds evening iftaars – the meal to open the fast. It provides the students a place to pray and break their fast, with food from all cultures.
“This is a blessing that most students don’t take advantage of,” says David Al, 18, a biology major.
Many students have also expressed how the Muslim Student Association was one of the reasons they came to Stony Brook in the first place. “The Muslim Student Association was the determining factor in me coming to Stony Brook,” said Al.
The program also stands out to pre-dental student Nur Noubani. “It’s rare to have schools who offer this program, its beautiful,” she said.
Eid-ul-Fitr follows Ramadan, which is celebrated the day after the last day of Ramadan. On the morning of Eid, there are prayer services, and the day is followed by feasting and spending time with family and friends.
