In 2022, the month of April directly aligns with the Islamic month of Ramadan. For those who may be unfamiliar, Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar calendar and it is the 30 days when the Quran came to the prophet Mohamed during his revelation. We as Muslims celebrate this month in many ways, including prayer, reflection, charity, forgiveness, and fasting.

The fasting is the most profound or shocking thing to most when they first hear of Ramadan. The reason being is because during the fast, we refrain from eating or drinking anything from sunrise to sunset for the entire month. In summer months, this can mean fasting for up to 18 hours, while continuing to go about our usual routines of work, school, and family/social responsibilities. Muslims also refrain from things such as gossip and swearing.

So, what is the point of it all? This is what I hope to answer for the readers of this blog. The first and main reason for fasting is it is required by the faith, being one of the five main pillars of Islam. Although difficult, the fast of Ramadan is rewarding in many ways.  

Without immediately realizing it, the individual fasting begins to strengthen his or her self-discipline, as it abruptly breaks your daily routine of nourishment. This really helps put into perspective how much can be accomplished if the right amount of effort is given, and how quickly one can change their habits. The discipline is also strengthened by completing the five prayers on time. Even though the prayers are quick, it is easy to have them slip one's mind during a very busy day. Identifying and developing the skills of timeliness and scheduling are skills that can be applied to any other setting.

Muslims are also taught to appreciate the day-to-day resources that may be taken for granted, and that which are scarce in the lives of many. Not eating and drinking all day is a choice for those who are fasting but it is not a choice for many who are less fortunate.

Ramadan is also a time for camaraderie, as the communities who practice gather nearly every day of the month to break their fast and join in prayer. Lectures of forgiveness and strengthening relationships are given throughout the month, and are reinforced when those who share a common goal gather every night to rejoice.  

Personally speaking, fasting the month of Ramadan reinforces my beliefs of being humble and kind, staying focused, and working on one's self every day, which is why I look forward to it every year. I welcome anyone who may want to discuss this further to reach out, and I hope I was able to shine some light on Ramadan.

Thank you to Cal Athletics and the DEIBJ office for allowing me to use this platform. I want to wish a Ramadan Kareem to all. 


(Peace be upon you) and Go Bears!


Yahya Aiyash is a Business Office Assistant for Cal Athletics.