Vox Populi - What Does Ramadan Mean To You?

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by Folashade Rodiyah Olajuwon


The month of Ramadan is the 9th month of the Muslim Hijra calendar wherein Muslim faithfuls are commanded to observe the fast in a bid to become closer to their Lord.

"O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint"(Al-Baqara, Verse 183).

Al-Ilaaj Editorial Board members reached out to muslim students within the University College Hospital (UCH) to find out what this holy month means to them and these are some of the responses we got:

"Ramadan is a time to practice self-restraint and self-reflection. Fasting is seen to cleanse the soul and have empathy for those in the world who are less fortunate than us. The fast ends at dusk with a meal known as “iftar” which is shared with family, friends and neighbours". (Tawakaltu Bolawa, School of Community Health Officer, 300L)

"Ramadan for me offers a much-needed break from the daily grind, allowing for introspection, reflection, and inner peace. By quieting external noise, I can better connect with myself, my values, and deepen my spiritual growth. Also fasting in the month of Ramadan fosters a stronger connection to my faith and a renewed sense of gratitude for all that I have". (Adedokun Saheed Babatunde, Biomedical Laboratory Science, 300L)

"Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion to worship for me." (Adeagbo Roheemat Ikeoluwa, School of Nursing (SON), 300L)

"Ramadan is a purified month, a month that teach us not only how to keep our eating and drinking habit in check but also our behaviour to the society, our social life and our Deen". (Lawal Rodiat, School of Health Information Management, IT student)

"Ramadan is a time of remembrance of Allah SWT when people who want to refrain from sins and fortify their minds with good deeds and a lot of prayer. My favorite part of Ramadan is when the whole family gathers together. We enjoy meals together, discuss, laugh and entertain each other before the time to pray". (Usamot Yusroh, School of Community Health Officer, HD CH 1 )

"Ramadan represents a period of profound self-reflection and spiritual connection to Allah—a time to reassess one's faith and strive for self-improvement by seeking forgiveness and amplifying acts of goodness. Without hesitation, it stands as my favorite time of the year. At times, I find myself wishing it could last the whole year, yet sadly, that's not the case". (Alonge AbdulRazak, Dentistry and Dental Surgery, 400L)

"You know when you are certain that your life can absolutely change in a period of time. That is what Ramadan is to me. I get to witness a noticeable new me every year. Ramadan, for me, is reflecting on how far Allah has brought me every year despite my numerous shortcomings and then, having firm belief that my life will continually change with my duas to Him in the blessed month. I love Allah so much and that He has given me a chance to reform my life every single year, Subhanallāh. It is a blessing I wish yearly I reach and maximize to the fullest capacity." (Mahfuzoh Opeyemi Ojewumi, Medicine and Surgery, 500L)

"To me, it's a month of forgiveness and achieving more good and blessings from Allāh. It's a month that has more greatness". (Mustapha Aishat Olaitan, School of Health Information Management, 400L)

"Ramadan to me is a period of spiritual reawakening and cleansing". (Habib Shobanke, Medicine and Surgery, 400L)

"Ramadan is the month I feel more healthier". (Adebayo Aliu Alade, Biomedical Laboratory Science, 300L)


Ramadan holds profound significance for various individuals, representing a time of reflection, spiritual growth, community engagement and compassion. We pray Almighty Allāh grant us the full benefits embedded in this holy month. 

As the final days of Ramadan draw near, it becomes imperative for us to intensify our prayers and acts of generosity towards those in need. This sacred time calls for a heightened sense of compassion and empathy, urging us to extend our hands even further to support and uplift those facing hardships.


Let us know what Ramadan mean to you in the comment box below.



Comments

Anonymous said…
Ramadan is my month of spiritual comeback. I cry a lot in Ramadan. I get emotional by how great Allah is and how clear His signs are. Subhanallah!My Yaqeen(Certainty) tends to full the cup in the blessed month. Alhamdulillah for Ramadan in my life.
8 April 2024 at 01:23
Anonymous said…
Ramadan is a month of forgiveness and blessings from Allah. A month you pray does not end because of the immense blessings and mercy from Allah. A month you wish would be every month. Alhamdulilah
8 April 2024 at 01:32
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