Photo Opp: Thursday 13 December, 3.30pm, DUIS Prayer Room, 166B Nethergate.
The Dundee University Islamic Society (DUIS) is inviting students and staff of all faiths to experience a Ramadan evening on Thursday 13 December at 3.30pm. This year the festival of Ramadan falls close to the time of the Jewish and Christian holidays, Hannukka and Christmas. The DUIS hopes to use this occasion for all communities of faith to learn more about each other.
Ramadan, for the Muslim community, is a time that is associated with the revelation of God, a time of charity and generosity.
Every year in the month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. Although the fast is most beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of self purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life. At the end of the day when the sun sets, the fast is broken with a moderate meal.
Third year Electronic and Electrical Engineering student, Muhammed El- Awaisi, who has organised the event explained: "Fasting teaches us to appreciates God's gift of food and drink. It generates the spirit of giving, charity and kindness. By abstaining we learn how to give to others."
During the month of Ramadan the Dundee University Islamic Society has been providing a hot meal on a daily basis in the main campus and in Ninewells prayer rooms.
Ramadan ends with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which in 2001 will most likely occur on Saturday December 15. Literally it means the 'festival of breaking the fast' and is one of the two most important Islamic celebrations - the other occurs after the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. At Eid al-Fitr people dress in their finest clothes, adorn their homes with lights and decorations, give treats to children, and enjoy visits with friends and family.
On Eid, there will be a full programme in the Dundee Central Mosque and in Taymills common room following the Eid Prayer (10.15am) which will include a breakfast, quizzes, and lunch.
For more information contact Muhammed El-Awaisi, DUIS, 01382 345133.