Today marks the beginning of Ramadhan and the month of fasting

Abdul Hamied of KYP Rochdale explains a little about Ramadhan - the month long annual fast observed by Muslims worldwideregarded as one of the five pillars of Islam - for non-Muslims.

“Ramadhan Mubarak” along with “Ramadhan Kareem” is how Muslims greet each other to mark the beginning of Ramadhan. Ramadhan Mubarak” roughly translates as “have a blessed Ramadhan” and “Ramadhan Kareem” roughly translates as “have a bountiful Ramadhan”.

Whilst it is a challenging time for Muslims sometimes non-Muslims can get a little anxious because they are unsure as to what is the appropriate way to be around those that are fasting. The key message is that if you are not fasting to carry on as normal and if not sure about something just ask. Muslims fully understand that you are not fasting and so it is not necessary for you to abstain from eating or drinking. Eating and drinking in the presence of those that are fasting will not cause offence.

By Friday (12 July) a “Ramadhan Factsheet” will be available on the KYP website (reproduced courtesy of Manningham Housing Association, Bradford).