University Libraries

By Janna Azzam ’27

Ramadan Mubarak! As we approach this blessed month, we take the time to reflect not only on ourselves, but on our contributions to our communities. Starting with the sighting of the new crescent, we begin our fast from sunrise to sunset for the entirety of the month. During this month of blessings, we take special care in our worship and work to better ourselves by reflecting on character and cultivating virtues. Through fasting, prayer and community, we strengthen our connection with Allah (SWT*), and we invite the community to join us in observance of this holy month. 

What Is Ramadan? 

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset based on the sighting of the crescent moon. It’s significant for the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Mohammed (SAW**). Observing Ramadan is a part of the five pillars of Islam, making it obligatory for anyone who is able. Fasting means abstaining not only from food and water, but from ill speech and bad habits. During this month, Muslims take the opportunity to increase in acts of worship, charity and seeking forgiveness. Typically, Muslims like to set goals for themselves to ensure they get the most reward out of this month. Common goals include completing the Quran, performing more prayer and being mindful of speech and actions. 

Once the sun has set, Muslims complete their Maghrib prayer, the fourth out of five obligatory prayers. Then they have iftar, or break their fast, beginning with a date as is believed to have been the practice of the Prophet Mohammed (SAW). Then, upon completion of the final obligatory prayer of the day, Muslims take part in a voluntary evening prayer called Taraweeh. This prayer is performed in congregation, and it’s known as a peaceful session meant for participants to gain significant reward and reflection on their connection with their faith. 

The month concludes with the sighting of the crescent moon and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast — a day for Muslims to come together and rejoice following their month of worship. 

Abu Huraira (AS***), a companion of the Prophet Mohammed (SAW) reported, ““Whoever fasts the month of Ramadan due to faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven. Whoever stands in prayer during the Night of Decree due to faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”

How to Get Involved

Of course, the beauty of Ramadan cannot be contained in a single forum. The significance and excitement of Ramdan is vast and deserves to be shared with the University of Dayton community. The UD Muslim Student Association would take great pleasure in sharing this sacred time with everyone. This month reminds us of our commitment to serve our community as student faith leaders. 

Throughout the month of Ramadan, various resources will be available throughout campus:

• Participate in the Ramadan craft on the first floor of Roesch Library, March 3-7.
• Check out some of the new books added to Roesch Library’s collection, on display March 3-14.
• Try a date from one of the baskets placed around campus.
• Join us for the Ramadan Celebration Community Iftar on March 13 (registration available through 1850). 
• Keep an eye out for Ramdan posts by @udcampusministry and @ud_msa on Instagram.

About the Muslim Student Association

The Muslim Student Association is a diverse group of Muslims on campus coming together to promote peace and interreligious dialogue. They strive to make a positive impact on the community by hosting lectures, group discussions, charity events and much more to highlight the Muslim perspective at the University of Dayton.

— Janna Azzam is a sophomore biology major.

* This is an initialism for the Arabic phrase “Subhanahu wa ta’ala,” meaning, “Glory be to the Exalted.”

** This is an initialism for the Arabic phrase “salla Allah alaihi wa sallam,” meaning “may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him.”

*** This is an initialism for the Arabic phrase “raḍiy Allāhu ’anhu,” which translates to “may Allah be pleased with him.”