9 Questions You Always Wanted To Ask About Ramadan

A Muslim alumni student's guide to how Muslim students might be spending the month of Ramadan, and what's going on around LUU.

1. What exactly is Ramadan, and when is it?

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Ramadan is one of the holiest months in the Muslim calendar. This year it runs from 6 May to 4 June. Muslims abstain from food and drink between sunrise and sunset - in the UK, that'll be roughly 18 hours a day.

2. That sounds pretty tough. Why would you want not to eat or drink for 30 days?

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Fasting is one of the 5 pillars of Islam and the Qur’an prescribes fasting for all Muslims able to do so. This excludes the sick, young, elderly, travellers, and women who are pregnant or on their period.

3. Is it just about not eating and drinking?

In short, no. Fasting’s a big part of it, but there's a whole lot more. Many Muslims will pray more than usual, give more charity, choose not to listen to music or watch TV, try to improve their personal habits, or take some time to be nicer to their friends and neighbours.

4. Don't people get hangry?

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Some do, some don’t. Fasting in the UK is long this year as Ramadan falls in the summer months. So if you find that a friend or colleague is a little bit grumpy, don't take it personally.

5. So is it best not to invite Muslim friends to social events?

It depends how they feel about it. Time of day and the type of event might affect their decision. Don’t take it personally if they say no - they made be tired or want to give some time to worship.

6. So can I still eat next to my Muslim friends?

Most Muslims are used to it. But if you’re not sure, it doesn’t hurt to ask.

7. Does every Muslim observe Ramadan in the same way?

Most Muslims will fast, but otherwise it really varies. Fasting, charity, spiritual reflection and community spirit can mean different things from person to person.

Ramadan can be that extra challenge for Muslims who suffer from depression or an illness, so remember that everyone is different! If a Muslim isn’t fasting, there could be a good reason for it.

8. What can I do to help my Muslim friend during Ramadan?

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Again, don’t be afraid to ask. An extra bit of patience or a helping hand would go a long way. If they have to walk far for their weekly shop, you might want to join them and carry a bag or two. Or simply acknowledge the month with a question or Ramadan greeting (Ramadan Mubarak - roughly, Happy Ramadan).

9. What is LUU doing to help Muslim students during Ramadan?

Here at LUU, we understand that it’s an important and challenging month, so we’re offering plenty of events and spaces for our Muslim students to relax and enjoy Ramadan.

LUU will be hosting a weekly Ramadan Iftars from 8:30pm in Union Square and Common Ground on 14 May, 21 May, 28 May and 3 June.

There will also be spaces on level 2 of the Union building on campus, where students can relax (and maybe have a nap). The room will change every day - you can stay up to date at luu.org.uk.

If you have any queries or questions about fasting during exams, pop into LUU Advice, for free, impartial and confidential support.

Ramadan Mubarak!