As the sun rises and sets, millions of Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to dusk during the holy month of Ramadan. It’s not just about skipping meals—it’s a time for reflection, self-control, and community.
Just before dawn, families in Edison gather around for Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal to fuel themselves for the day ahead. Right after Suhoor, Muslims pray Fajr, the early morning prayer, and the fast officially begins as the sun rises in the sky. Throughout the day, Muslims avoid food, water, and even gum! Hours later, as the sun sinks lower, it’s time for Maghrib, the evening prayer. Families gather around, starting with dates and water—just like Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did—to break the fast. Iftar starts with meals full of gratitude and often includes shared dishes with family and friends.
For students observing this holy month, “the challenge was there, but the experience was still rewarding, despite fasting for a shorter time frame,” said MSA President Saja Omar ‘25.
Ramadan offers an opportunity for reflection and encourages individuals to set aside busy work schedules after school.
“I’ve had more time to myself, disregarding my work schedule, and my most peaceful days are spent at the masjid or spending all night praying taraweeh with my sisters. Any other month with this workload would have left me crashing out every night, but in Ramadan, you do exercise self-control and reflection! It makes you feel a lot better,” said Rukaiya Fazle ‘25.
The experience of fasting teaches students a plethora of valuable life lessons.
“Fasting is a beauty in itself. It teaches you sabr (patience), discipline, and appreciation. Fasting with school was not tough at all and only helped spend time doing something productive,” said MSA President Muhammad Abdullah ‘26.
However, the busy hustle of school and fasting can often clash with each other, making balancing homework, tests, and extracurricular activities challenging. With the limited energy from fasting, students often struggle to maintain their focus while fulfilling the obligations of fasting.
“One thing that I struggled with was being able to manage my time between waking up for Suhoor, then going to school, and later coming back from school and getting ready for Iftar. It was difficult for me to set aside time for everything I wanted to do, but I overcame this by doing homework the second I got home, so later on in the day, I wouldn’t have it on my mind. Then I was able to focus on everything else,” said Minan Abualhassan ‘28.
However, this struggle makes it all rewarding in the end.
The significance of the Edison community during Ramadan is highlighted by the efforts of the Muslim Student Association at EHS. From the successful annual Iftar event, which was filled with the Edison community, to the continued Jummah (Friday) prayers in school, the celebration of Ramadan was lively this month.
“Each day, I felt a closer connection to Allah, using the time for increased worship, reciting the Quran, giving charity, and seeking forgiveness,” said Muslim Student Association Club Advisor, Ms. Hanan Almasoud. “One of the highlights of this Ramadan was seeing the Muslim Students Association (MSA) club shine through their Iftar event, creating a sense of community and joy. It was heartwarming to witness how they came together, supporting one another in fasting, praying, and worshiping Allah peacefully.”
Many students concluded that although fasting challenges them physically and mentally, it encourages a deeper appreciation while learning life lessons.
“This year’s Ramadan was wonderful! It was great to see more people understanding why we fast and being so respectful. The days flew by quickly, and I do wish I had done more to make the most of it, but it still felt special,” said Haddeel Omar ‘27.