Dr Aminah Mirza is a trainee GP, and part of our fantastic Medical Team for the next six months. She shares what Ramadan means to her, from fasting and prayer to family traditions, and the values of compassion and gratitude that resonate so strongly within hospice care.
As a young practising Muslim following the Hanafi school of thought, Ramadan has always been a month I deeply look forward to. For me, it is a time of spiritual reset. At times throughout the year, life can feel overwhelming, and my soul can feel heavy. Ramadan allows me to pause, reflect, and rebuild my connection with Allah (God).
Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is observed by Muslims around the world. It is also the blessed month in which the Quran, our holy book, was first revealed. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr prayer) until sunset for either 29 or 30 days, as our Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle. Ramadan moves approximately 10–11 days earlier each year as it is based on the lunar cycle.
Fasting is not simply about abstaining from food and drink. It is about developing self-discipline, gratitude, empathy and closeness to our Creator. It reminds us of our blessings and increases our awareness of those who are less fortunate. Charity is a central part of Ramadan. Zakah (obligatory charity, one of the pillars of Islam) is often given during this month, alongside additional voluntary charity. We are encouraged to show kindness, patience and generosity, especially to our neighbours and those in need.
Ramadan is also a time of unity. There is something incredibly special about knowing that millions of Muslims across the globe are fasting, praying and reflecting together. We gather for the breaking of the fast (Iftar) at sunset and rise early for a pre-dawn meal (Suhoor). We perform extra nightly prayers called Taraweeh, which bring communities together in worship.
Islam places great importance on compassion and wellbeing. Fasting is not intended to cause harm. Individuals who are exempt include:
Missed fasts can be made up later if someone is temporarily unwell. If someone is unable to fast long-term due to illness or frailty, they may instead provide meals to those in need as a form of compensation (known as fidyah).
The month is traditionally described in three parts (Ashra), each focusing on a different theme: mercy, forgiveness and protection from hardship. It is a time to seek spiritual growth and to strengthen our character.
The First Ashra – Mercy (Rahmah)
The first ten days focus on seeking and reflecting on God’s mercy. It is a time to soften the heart and renew intentions.
The Second Ashra – Forgiveness (Maghfirah)
The next ten days emphasise seeking forgiveness for our shortcomings. Muslims increase prayer, reflection and repentance during this period.
The Final Ashra – Salvation and Protection (Najah)
The last ten days are considered the most spiritually intense. Within these nights is Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power), believed to be the night the Quran was first revealed. Worship during this time is considered especially rewarding.
Personally, one of the most beautiful aspects of Ramadan is family. We open and close our fasts together and make a conscious effort to pray and reflect more as a household. Now that I am an aunt, I treasure creating our own traditions; preparing gift baskets for friends and neighbours, decorating our home with a crescent “Ramadan tree,” and setting an atmosphere that makes the month feel truly special. We also look forward to Eid, the celebration at the end of Ramadan, where we exchange gifts (Eidi), gather as a family and express gratitude for completing the month.
Although some may associate Ramadan with large meals, the prophetic tradition teaches moderation; to break the fast simply with dates and water, pray, and then eat a balanced meal. The focus is never indulgence, but mindfulness and gratitude.
I am truly grateful to witness another Ramadan and to have the opportunity to grow spiritually each year. To all those observing, Ramadan Mubarak. May Allah accept our prayers and good deeds and allow us to make the most of this blessed month.
Thank you for reading and thank you to Thames Hospice for giving me the opportunity to share what Ramadan means to me.
Aminah
Our services are free of charge to all those in our community who need vital hospice care but this is only made possible through the charitable support and generosity of our amazing community. We need to raise £39,000 each day to fund our services 365 days a year to the people who need us most.
We’ve never needed you, our wonderful supporters, more than we need you today. Please donate what you can to help keep hospice care available for those in desperate need.
Support us