Welcome to our blog. 

 

Continuing our theme of valuing diversity and deepening our professional relationships, we wanted to share some information about Ramadan. This holy month is now upon us, providing us with another great opportunity for us to learn from each other. 

 

We are thrilled to have so many colleagues from different backgrounds and cultures in SELDOC – the differences make us stronger and everyone is very welcome.  

Ramadan is one of the most holiest months in the Islamic calendar. This year it starts on the 13th of April. During the month, Muslims all over the world will be fasting from dawn until sunset every day. 

 

The fast begins at dawn after a very early morning meal called the Suhoor. While fasting they cannot eat or drink anything. It ends after sunset with a meal called the Iftaar. 

 

During the period, Muslims also increase their prayers and attend night congregational prayers - over the space of the month the whole of the Quran is recited. 

 

It is also a time of giving as Muslims believe the rewards for good actions are multiplied significantly. Donations to charity, doing good deeds, and sharing food with neighbours and friends, are all features of Ramadan. 

 

 

All Muslims, women and men and including children who have gone through puberty, are expected to fast. However, some people are exempt such as those who are too frail, unwell, are travelling, or pregnant. 

 

 

At the end of the 29 or 30 days of Ramadan (the number of days changes depending on the lunar cycle), Muslims celebrate Eid. This is one of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar and is seen as a day when those who have fasted during Ramadan are rewarded for their efforts. 

 

 

The BBC has an informative article called ‘Ramadan in the workplace what you need to know’ and can be found at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zrpbt39 

 

Thank you for taking a moment to read this information. We hope you found it interesting. We would love to hear from you if you are interested in what we do and would like to find out a little more. 

 

With very best wishes from the SELDOC team.