Muslims observe Ramadan at CVHS

Ramadan is a celebration of the Islamic religion that goes beyond the basic understanding of the no-eating-or-drinking rule most people know about. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, from Feb. 17 to March 19 this year. For many students and staff here, it’s a time for reflection, family, and becoming a better version of yourself. 

Math teacher, Tagreed Badwai, explained the Holy month of Ramadan and what it’s actually about. She mentioned a few details of what this month is about, but one of great importance is the submission of god. “The main idea is to submit to one god,” Badwai said.

Even though fasting has healthy benefits, the religious connection is the real point. “We are fasting because we believe we worship Allah by doing that,” she said. For Badwai, the best part isn’t even the food at the end of the day; it’s the connection it builds. 

Badwai shared that her favorite thing is how it “brings the family together.” It also helps people build empathy by feeling what it’s like for those who are less fortunate. Interestingly, her least favorite part isn’t the hunger– it’s how fast the month ends. “It goes by fast. That’s my least favorite,” she said.

She also mentioned Zakat, a tradition where people give to the poor towards the end of the month. Instead of giving just money, they often give food to make sure everyone in the community is taken care of and fed.

Senior Hebatullah Amereh is another person who gave a student’s perspective on Ramadan. She described Ramadan as the “month of the Quran” and clarified a big misconception: the fast only lasts from sunrise to sunset.

Once the sun goes down, it’s time for Iftar, which is the meal where everyone gathers. “My favorite thing about Ramadan is getting to sit down and get together with family for iftar,” Amereh said.

For Amereh, the month is a huge part of her identity. “This shapes our religion because it teaches us to be grateful and to have food on the table,” she said. “When we fast, we feel how people who don’t have food on the table feel.” 

She also mentioned that it’s not meant to be a punishment. Instead, it’s a time when “good deeds get multiplied,” and being devoted to the religion becomes the main focus. Empathy is a huge part of the religion.

Celebrating Ramadan at CVHS is also very hard. Safaa Raz mentioned how celebrating the event at CVHS is very difficult, especially when it’s hot. “Celebrating Ramadan at CVHS is definitely harder, especially when dealing with the heat wave. It affects me physically because my PE teachers don’t understand why I’m so tired and can’t function like my usual self,” she said.

Whether it’s Badwai’s advice to “be patient” and be a good person to the community, or Amereh’s focus on gratitude, it’s clear that Ramadan is about more than just a calendar date. It’s a month that challenges you to be a good person to yourself and those around you.