Ramadhan has always held a special place in my heart. During my two and a half decades in Oman, I was delighted to witness the beauty of the Muslim community as they fasted, broke their fast together and prayed in unison, all with remarkable precision!
Although I am not a religious scholar qualified to discuss fasting authoritatively, I believe that fasting is truly complete only when the body, mind, words and actions align and achieve purity.
Research shows that fasting has been practiced around the world for centuries. It has been widely used as a religious practice aimed at purifying individuals, atoning for sins and wrongdoing, and achieving physical well-being.
As a month dedicated to charity and generosity, Muslims strive to support those in need, embodying the spirit of giving and compassion. Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, is a time of togetherness, where families, friends, and even strangers gather to share food and express gratitude.
Recent scientific studies indicate that fasting can regenerate the immune system. It reduces stress, lowers the risk of chronic diseases, improves mood and enhances mental alertness. In other words, fasting is a holistic practice that nurtures both the body and the soul.
However, as in many previous years, this Ramadhan also arrives amidst wars, conflicts and devastation in numerous countries, casting a long shadow over the lives of those affected and magnifying their profound losses.
In countries such as Afghanistan, Lebanon, the occupied Palestinian territories, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, crises and conflicts cast a long shadow over the unfortunate individuals who are compelled to observe Ramadhan without access to food, potable water, or other essential resources.
In Afghanistan, 14 million people have limited or no access to healthcare services. One-third of the population is experiencing acute food insecurity, and 7.8 million children and women require emergency nutritional assistance to prevent death and disease.
Reports indicate that in Sudan, 20.3 million people require urgent health assistance, and 15 million individuals are either displaced within the country or have fled to neighbouring countries in search of refuge.
In Syria, 14 years of conflict have left 90 per cent of the population living in extreme poverty. Forced to flee their homes, millions of Syrians have sought refuge in camps and makeshift shelters, where food, clean water and healthcare are scarce.
Lebanon is no different. Nearly 1.59 million people in the country are facing acute food insecurity. The health system is struggling with a complex humanitarian crisis, which has been exacerbated by the economic downturn and the effects of recent conflicts.
According to reports, 19.6 million people in Yemen struggle to access essential health services. Less than 40 per cent of Yemenis have access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation, leaving the overall population highly vulnerable to preventable diseases.
In Palestine, the war has torn apart many of the familiar and cherished traditions of Ramadhan. In Gaza, Al Jazeera reports that echoes of war still resonate loudly. There is no certainty that this ceasefire will endure. People are anxious about what will happen next, fearing that the war may return.
Gaza’s Health Ministry has reported that Israel’s military offensive has resulted in the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians, the majority of whom are women and children. Approximately 1.5 million Palestinians are currently without homes or shelter.
Although the festive spirit may have faded in these countries, the essence of Ramadhan remains. This month offers an opportunity to step away from the distractions and concerns of everyday life and reconnect with one's faith. It is a time for forgiveness and a chance to seek closeness to Allah and cultivate spiritual resilience.
In his Ramadhan message, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated, “In this holy month, let us all be uplifted by these values and embrace our common humanity to build a more just and peaceful world for all.”
No doubt, in these challenging times, the spirit of Ramadhan is a beacon of hope. I wish all Muslims peace and joy.
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