Illustration by Jordan Johnson
Wednesday marks the beginning of Ramadan, when Muslims will begin their first fast for the month.
Ramadan is the most sacred month in Islamic culture and shifts every year based on the lunar Islamic calendar.
From sunrise to sunset, Muslims fast by refraining from food, water and worldly desires.
Ramadan offers students time to spend with their community and focus on their spirituality.
Lujain Al Fidaghee, vice president of the Muslim Student Association, said that with the growing number of Muslim students at UTA, she hopes for understanding from the university’s non-Muslim population.
“I’m just looking forward for another great time on campus, spending it with fellow students and faculty,” she said.
Al Fidaghee said the association is looking to host at least one event every week throughout Ramadan. There will be events for students to break their fast together and opportunities to pray as a community.
Computer science senior Zubair Rashaad said the association has an initiative to place small snacks and water at popular prayer spots.
“Whoever’s on campus will have something to break their fast with,” he said.
Al Fidaghee said she usually breaks her fast by eating three dates and drinking a cup of water, something common among Muslims. She said it’s fulfilling alongside the lentil soup her mother makes.
“You think you’re going to be hungry as soon as you break your fast, but no,” she said. “You just need that sip of water.”
For Al Fidaghee, Ramadan is a time to focus on her connection to herself and her religion, she said. Al Fidaghee said she tries to be a better version of herself each year through reflection and prayer. This year, her biggest plan is to connect with her family.
“Last year, I got a little bit busy with my studies, so this year I really hope to spend a little more time with them,” she said.
Information systems senior Rayden Siarot said he converted to Islam in 2022. This will be his fourth Ramadan, and he said he is excited to spend time with friends and visit different mosques. Mostly, he said, he hopes to connect with his religion.
“It doesn’t matter where I go or what I have planned,” Siarot said. “I’m just trying to grow as a Muslim and refresh from the whole year of stress.”
Rashaad said Ramadan is a special time, and it’s comforting to come together with the large community of Muslim students on campus.
“It gives you hope and direction with whatever is going on in your life and just allows you to reconnect with your faith,” he said.
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