Eman Sakina

Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. For women, this holy month brings unique experiences, challenges, and opportunities for personal growth. Their role during Ramzan extends beyond personal worship to nurturing their families, fostering community bonds, and balancing daily responsibilities while seeking spiritual fulfillment.

A woman’s day during Ramzan typically begins before dawn with Suhoor, the predawn meal. She rises early to prepare a nourishing meal for herself and her family, ensuring they have the energy to sustain themselves throughout the day of fasting. Despite the early hours, this time is also an opportunity for private prayer and reflection.

As the sun rises and the fast begins, women often juggle multiple roles. Whether she is a homemaker, student, or working professional, the demands of daily life continue. Amid these tasks, she finds moments to engage in acts of worship—reciting the Quran, performing Salah (prayers), and offering supplications.

The Working Woman

For a working woman, Ramzan is a balancing act between professional duties and spiritual devotion. Her day may begin early with Suhoor, followed by preparing for work. Throughout the workday, she maintains patience and focus while fulfilling her responsibilities. Many workplaces accommodate fasting employees by offering shorter hours or breaks for prayer. Despite the physical fatigue, she carves out moments for Dhikr (remembrance of God) and Quran recitation. After work, she returns home to assist in preparing Iftar and spends the evening in ‘Taraweeh’ prayers when possible.

Women shopping for Ramzan

The Homemaker

A homemaker’s Ramzan is filled with service to her family while nurturing her spiritual journey. Her day revolves around preparing Suhoor and Iftar, managing household tasks, and guiding her children in observing the fast. Despite the physical demands, she dedicates time to prayer, Quran recitation, and charitable activities. Her contribution to the household extends beyond providing meals—she fosters a spiritual atmosphere through storytelling, encouraging good deeds, and ensuring the home resonates with the spirit of Ramzan.

The student

For a student, balancing academic commitments with fasting requires careful time management. She begins her day with Suhoor, followed by school or university responsibilities. While attending classes, she remains mindful of her spiritual goals, using breaks to engage in quiet reflection or Quran reading. After school, she helps with Iftar preparations and dedicates time to her studies. Despite the challenge of balancing study pressures and fasting, Ramzan becomes a time of personal growth and increased faith.

Ramzan is not just a physical fast from food and drink but a spiritual journey of self-purification and closeness to God. For women, the month provides a unique opportunity to deepen their connection with Allah. Many women increase their acts of charity, whether by preparing food for the needy or assisting community programs. It is also a time for spiritual introspection, where patience, gratitude, and compassion become guiding principles.

A family breaking their fast at their shop during Ramzan

For those experiencing menstruation, Islam exempts them from fasting and certain prayers during this time. While they may not fast, women continue to engage in other forms of worship, such as Dhikr (remembrance of God) and studying Islamic teachings. This exemption reflects Islam's emphasis on mercy and ease, acknowledging the physical demands women face.

Preparation of Iftar, the meal to break the fast, is often a labour of love. As sunset approaches, women meticulously prepare a variety of dishes, turning the meal into a celebration of togetherness. Sharing food with neighbours and the less fortunate is a cherished tradition that enhances the communal spirit of Ramzan.

Beyond the kitchen, women also play an integral role in guiding their children toward spiritual awareness. Through storytelling, sharing Islamic teachings, and encouraging acts of kindness, they nurture the next generation's faith and understanding.

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For women, Ramzan is a multifaceted experience that encompasses spiritual devotion, family care, and community service. It is a time to seek closeness to God while embracing their diverse roles with grace and dedication. Through fasting and prayer, women embody the essence of Ramzan—patience, humility, and a commitment to bettering themselves and the world around them.