A time of prayer and spiritual reflection, Ramadhan has always been a period of community togetherness as families and friends gather to share meals, pray together and engage in spiritual invigoration.
However, with many individuals and families living away from their homes owing to work, education and other compulsions, Ramadhan in the new millennium is being re-invented, with online forums becoming as popular as traditional ones.
In Oman, many communities have extended families in other countries, and this makes a physical sharing of Ramadhan rituals difficult.
However, there are ways in which technology has come together with faith to offer a unique religious and cultural experience. Shared religious content through digital reels on Tik Tok and Instagram are increasingly becoming popular.
People routinely share Quranic recitations and educational videos on Ramadhan-related topics with children who may be studying in other countries as a form of education and cultural continuity.
Also shared are the content of influential scholars who offer daily reminders of supplications which help families staying away from each other to stay connected. Online lectures and virtual study circles also create a sense of community and allow for a shared sense of purpose.
Virtual Iftars are another invention of the modern time.
Families, divided by time and space, often come together over a shared digital space to share the joy of breaking the fast, even if some members of the family are still fasting. People staying away from home often find solace in sharing in the rituals of an Iftar preparation and arrangement via a Zoom or some other kind of social media streaming. This brings families together in a way that would have been impossible at an earlier time.
In fact, even mosques in some countries live stream prayers to enable those who are physically apart to participate in this important experience.
Charity is a central pillar of Islam and online platforms have made it possible to contribute and participate in select projects close to individuals. Crowdfunding for specific projects through social media campaigns make it easier for people to stay aware of causes across the globe and be personally supportive of activities in which it may be difficult to physically participate.
Social media, for example has been extremely proactive in organising supplies for distribution of food and other essentials to Palestine through official organisations.
Facilitating zakat through online forums have made it more possible for much needed resources to reach needy areas of the world.
Online communities also offer emotional and mental support for those who may be alone and far from home. Negotiating fasting with a daily routine of work or study can be tough for many who then seek support from virtual sources. These platforms foster a sense of solidarity, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their journey.
The spirit of Ramadhan has extended beyond physical spaces into becoming vibrant online communities, often replacing traditional social ties. They have re-defined how people observe and celebrate, making up for physical absences by using digital platforms to ensure an inclusive, engaging experience.
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