Ashraf from Deaf Muslim Association explains Ramadan
Ashraf: Hello! I’m Ashraf. The organization that I run is called Deaf Muslim Association, or DMA for short. It is based in New York.
[FULL SCREEN TEXT]:
WHAT IS RAMADAN?
Ashraf: In the Islamic year, there are 12 months. The ninth is called Ramadan. This is the sign for it. What does it mean? It is when Allah gave guidance to the Prophet Muhammad in the Quran that said Muslim people should fast from sunrise to sunset. It means you cannot eat, drink, have sex, become angry, and other things.
[FULL SCREEN TEXT]
WHY IS RAMADAN IMPORTANT?
Ashraf: Why is it important? It helps people to recognize those who are suffering with starvation and poverty. It also allows you to focus on yourself and improve your lives. It is to help others, donate money, and forgive people. Here is an analogy. You can move your finger back and forth a candle flame without getting hurt. But if you keep your finger above the flame, it will get painful, of course. It is the same with life. You might do different kinds of sins daily and forget about it or don’t notice it. But if you focus on the self and look at the different sins and bad habits, you can see what needs improvement. It’s the same thing.
[FULL SCREEN TEXT]:
HOW DO WE SEND WISHES TO PEOPLE WHO CELEBRATE RAMADAN?
Ashraf: How can people show support? You can say “Happy Ramadan” or “Have a blessed Ramadan.” You shouldn’t intentionally eat in front of others who are fasting. You should give space for Muslims to pray.
[Sponsored Video from Convo: https://www.convorelay.com/download ]
[FULL SCREEN TEXT]:
IN WHAT WAY HAS COVID-19 IMPACTED RAMADAN?
Ashraf: Covid-19 definitely had an impact. Normally there are huge gatherings with family and friends in which we share food. Right now it seems like it’s just families gathering by themselves. Some live far away and can’t interact.
[FULL SCREEN TEXT]:
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE END OF RAMADAN?
Ashraf: When the month of Ramadan ends, it’s called Eid al-Fitr. It is a celebration of breaking the fast. People gather and are free to feast from that point forward.
[FULL SCREEN TEXT]:
Thank you, Ashraf and the Deaf Muslim Association!
Interviewer: Callie Frye