What is Ramadan?
Ramadan has a deep meaning for Muslims, because of the link to the scriptures in Islam. Muslims concentrate on the revelation of the Qur’an during the holy month, as Allah tells us: ‘Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an was revealed as a guidance and clarification to humankind and a distinction between right and wrong…’ (Qur’an 2:185). Because of this, people will concentrate
on reading the Qur’an more.

One element of Ramadan is fasting. Why is that?
Fasting is not just about food, but also the avoidance of drink and marital relations from dawn until sunset. It states in the Qur’an: ‘O believers! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you in order that you may become more conscious of God’ (Qur’an 2:183). Fasting is an act that is between the individual and God, as nobody knows if you are actually fasting – it is easy to sneak a drink or a snack. When Prophet Mohammad was asked, ‘Which is the best deed?’ he replied, ‘Fasting, for there is nothing equal to it.’ Anyone who fasts will also feel the hunger that much of mankind feels on a daily basis, for there is a large proportion of the world living below the poverty line. This helps us to draw closer to humanity and appreciate our blessings.

What else must Muslims do during Ramadan?
Believers, in order to grow closer to Allah, should engage in charity, extra prayers, feeding the poor and reading the Qur’an, with vigour. They should abstain from lying, engaging in vain talk, wasting time with watching movies or listening to music. Essentially, aim to become closer to God by behaving as we should all year round.

And how should non-Muslims behave at this time?
With tolerance, respect and understanding. Care should be taken by non-Muslims during the day not to eat, drink or smoke in public. Those in offices should take lunch behind closed doors. The Muslim community becomes more sensitive during the month, so people should be even more careful in how they dress and behave in public. Things that are usually overlooked may not be during Ramadan. Be aware that colleagues may be tired due to their religious and social requirements.

Will restaurants close?
Most restaurants will close during daylight hours, but some within hotels will be open during the day for non-Muslims.

Will working hours or shop opening times be affected?
Companies usually have reduced working hours for staff, especially for those that are fasting. Shopping centres have varied policies, with hypermarkets generally open all of the time, maybe with extended opening hours. Other shops may be closed from midday, but with later opening times also.

Can I drink alcohol during Ramadan?
No. Outlets are generally banned from selling alcohol.

Are there certain exceptions to fasting?
God knows people have weaknesses and illnesses. People are exempt from fasting whilst travelling, but should make it up another time. The sick, elderly, women who are pregnant or have just given birth are exempt as it’s an extra drain, but they also make it up later on.

What is Iftar? Can non-Muslims attend an Iftar banquet?
Iftar refers to the evening meal for breaking the fast, with Muslims often gathering together. The meal is eaten right after sunset. Traditionally, a date is the first thing to be consumed when the fast is broken. Of course it is permissible to attend an Iftar. Actually, we recommend trying the fast, and breaking it in the company of Muslims, to gain a sense of the community and belonging.

Ramadan culminates in Eid. What is this?
Eid-al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of the month of Shaw’waal – the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Eid-al-Fitr is a very joyous day, as Muslims celebrate the health, strength and opportunities of life that Allah has given to them for fulfilling their obligation of fasting and other good deeds during Ramadan. People start the day by eating, then praying to remember God as a community. Then they will spend time
enjoying the company of their friends and family.
Qatar Islamic Cultural Centre (4425 0250), Abdullah bin Jassim Street. See www.fanar.gov.qa for more info