While you might be an expat, a student, a recent immigrant, or a new permanent resident of Australia, you can still successfully observe Ramadan in your new country and celebrate in the joy of Eid al Fitr.
While many non-Muslims know Eid is the celebratory end of Ramadan, what they may not realize is that, for all its fasting and sacrifice, the rest of Ramadan itself is joyous too. This special month is when families and friends come together to share their joy and blessings with one another and their community.
4 Ways to Share in the Joy of Ramadan
During Ramadan, Sadaqah and Zakat—important concepts of Islam—take on greater importance as this is a time to increase good deeds and give back to your communities. Helping those in need is a great way to bring joy to others during Ramadan. Here are a few ideas:
- Give Sadaqah to someone or an organization in need. You can volunteer at a local charity, donate to a cause you care about, or simply offer to do chores or tasks for an elderly neighbor or someone else nearby.
- Increase your Zakat. While Muslims typically practice Zakat throughout the year, Ramadan is an appropriate time to give more of what you earn to people or organizations that need help. If you attend a local mosque, they may have a special campaign running that makes giving to the needy easy.
- Share food. Whether hosting iftar at your home or workplace or celebrating the end of Ramadan at Eid, you can share your special meals with friends, coworkers or neighbors. Prepare some traditional dishes and take them to your neighbors or friends to share in the joy of the season. Plus, when eating together you can share what Ramadan is all about.
- Send a heartfelt message to a loved one overseas or a friend on the other side of the continent. This can be a letter or card you send through the post or a message on someone’s social media page. Ramadan is a perfect time to let others know you are thankful for them.
By being kind, compassionate, and grateful during Ramadan, you will help bring joy to others during this special time.
Observing Ramadan in Australia
Observing Ramadan in Australia can be challenging due to the longer days, and therefore the longer time of fasting from sunrise to sunset. It can also be challenging if you are away from family and friends or in an area where there are not many Muslims.
Plan ahead to get through your workday, and talk to your managers about any activities that may conflict with your fasting or ritual prayers. Most people are aware Ramadan is a holy time and will help find a solution for you to fulfill both work and spiritual obligations.
Even though Ramadan is a time for self-reflection, know that you are not alone. There are over a half million Muslims in Australia, so many communities—especially larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth—hold markets, Eid celebrations and other public events. Search online for public activities near you.
Sending Money for Ramadan or Eid
If you want to send money from Australia to family overseas to help with their meals or celebrations, Western Union can help. This Ramadan, when you send your first online transfer through our app or website, you can get our best FX rate (foreign exchange rate) and zero transfer fees.
Download the Western Union app from the Apple Store or from Google Play.
Wherever you may be, share in the joy of Ramadan. Ramadan Mubarak!
Sources:
https://muslimmatters.org/2022/04/29/bringing-joy-to-others/
https://insiderguides.com.au/ramadan-in-australia/
https://www.egypttoday.com/Article/15/50269/Ramadan-Away-from-Home