Gaza is abuzz with activity as residents of the Maghazi refugee camp prepare to welcome the holy month of Ramadan this week. Palestinians are working diligently to repair mosques destroyed during recent conflicts, ensuring they can celebrate Tarawih prayers, which are special night prayers observed throughout Ramadan.
On February 27, 2025, it was reported by AskNews, "I palestinesi nel campo profughi di Maghazi a Gaza sono al lavoro per riparare alcune delle moschee distrutte nella guerra per dare il benvenuto al mese del Ramadan e celebrare le preghiere del Tarawih." This sentiment reflects the determination of the community to restore their places of worship and come together as the month approaches.
Ramadan, which begins on February 28 and ends on March 30, is observed by millions of Muslims worldwide as they engage in fasting from dawn until sunset—a practice integral to their faith. Fasting during this ninth month of the Islamic calendar is one of the five pillars of Islam and commemorates the month when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
Traditions surrounding the month of Ramadan enrich the community spirit. At the Central Mosque of Lisbon, as stated by Samir Aboobaker from the Community of Lisbon who was quoted by Lusa, "Nella Moschea Centrale di Lisbona saranno messi a disposizione 2.000 pasti al giorno per rompere il digiuno al tramonto." This effort ensures everyone can partake in the breaking of the fast communal meal called iftar each evening.
During Ramadan, believers engage not only in fasting but reflection and charitable acts. Aboobaker emphasized, "Durante il Ramadan, i credenti sono tenuti a riflettere e compiere buone azioni, ad esempio aiutare i meno abbienti." The spirit of giving is elevated, with many choosing to donate food, clothing, or money to those less fortunate within their communities.
The month is also marked by special prayers and lectures, fostering community and dialogue among Islamic believers. Participation is often encouraged at local mosques, where attendees gather not just for prayers but to learn and share experiences related to their faith.
Regarding the end of Ramadan, Aboobaker noted, "La fine del mese sacro è un'occasione di amnistia," indicating the festive gatherings and engagements during the Eid al-Fitr feast, which marks the conclusion of the fasting month. This year's Eid will be celebrated on March 30, 2025, where families come together to rejoice, enjoy festive meals, and perform additional prayers.
It is noteworthy how the Islamic lunar calendar impacts the timing of Ramadan. Each year, as the lunar year is shorter than the solar year, Ramadan begins approximately 10 or 11 days earlier, leading to a diverse set of experiences across seasons. According to forecasts, this will mean unusual observations during certain years, such as the expected double celebrations of Ramadan reported for the year 2030.
Globally, Islam remains the second-largest religion, accounting for about 25% of the world's population. The dynamics of Muslim communities continue to evolve. For example, it is reported there are over 50,000 Muslims living in Portugal, predominantly Sunni, comprising about 80-90% of the Muslim population. Such statistics highlight the growing presence and influence of Islam, intertwined with traditions like Ramadan.
The upcoming month of Ramadan stands as both a time for personal reflection and community engagement as Muslims worldwide celebrate faith, family, and generosity. Amidst the challenges seen across regions—particularly highlighted by reconstruction efforts of the Maghazi mosque—there is unequivocally a resilient spirit among those preparing for this meaningful observance.