The Muslim community in New Zealand will witness a very different month of Ramadan, perhaps, something they might not have seen in their lifetime.
The holy month of Ramadan this year will see mosques closed, no gathering for Iftar parties, no congregational prayers outside, or in a community centre, and two most important things missing- no Taraweeh prayers at the mosque and probably no Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the end of Ramadan as well.
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, a holy month where Muslims all around the globe observe fast from dawn to dusk for 30 days, make special prayers and at the sight of the crescent moon on the 29th or 30th night and observe Eid-ul-Fitr the next day. The main activity for Eid involves making the Eid prayers that commemorate the 30 days of Ramadan fasting.
Fasting is obligatory and one of the five pillars of Islam. Those exempt include young children, anyone who is sick, travellers, women who are pregnant, nursing or menstruating.
"For the first time in New Zealand's history, mosques will be closed for the Holy month of Ramadan, and this is one of the most significant faith changes for NZ Muslims, brought on by COVID-19 this year," president of International Muslim Associations of New Zealand (IMAN), Tahir Nawaz told The Indian Weekender.
The significance of fasting and making special prayers during Ramadan is not just to abstain from food and entertainment, but to also strengthen the faith, take some time for self-reflection and get closer to the creator.
Muslims observe extended prayers in the night (Taraweeh), Zikr (Remembrance of Lord) and recite the holy book Quran during this month. However, this time, Muslims will have to observe all their prayers at home, including Friday and daily evening Taraweeh prayers, in their bubbles, with their families.
Senior analyst of Muslims in NZ and president of International Muslim Associations of New Zealand (IMAN), Tahir Nawaz
"This year, those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms are exempt for fasting as it may affect their recovery," Mr Tahir said.
Speaking from IMAN, Mr Tahir said that sadly, family and friend gatherings will not take place, which in normal times is an essential part of Ramadan, to share blessings.
"Iftar (daily communal fast opening meals) will likewise not be able to take place. No tarawih (late night prayers) in non-bubble gatherings. Distribution of charities (obligatory in Ramadan) will most likely go towards COVID-19 causes," he added.
Muslims this year will not be able to travel to Mecca to perform Umrah (pilgrimage) as Saudi Arabia too has closed its borders for both international and domestic pilgrims and ceased all prayers and activities in Mecca.
"One thing that will remain the same, however, is that the faith of Muslims will remain steadfast; indeed it will be fortified by doing more Ibadah (Prayers)," Mr Tahir said.
Ramadan is expected to begin on Friday, April 24 or Saturday, April 25; the exact date will be announced by moon sighting closer to these dates.
All Photos, IWK File pictures
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