Ramadan and Covid-19

Ramadan and Covid-19

By Nazia Sultana, MapmyGenome

Covid-19 has turned the world upside down. Amidst this chaos, we have a blessed visitor — Ramadan Kareem. As we continue to fast this Ramadan with the same zeal and steadfastness, we do miss the usual raunaq of the month, due to empty mosques, restricted socialising, and deserted markets.

Let us follow the advice of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who recommended aspects of quarantine and social distancing in times of disease. And let us perceive that all the things we are missing this month, due to the pandemic, have been or can be replaced with things that are equally beautiful:

• The mosques are deserted but our homes have become mosques — what a beautiful sight to behold!

• This quarantine, we are spending more time with ourselves, our families, and also with our Lord

• Having limited food supplies has made us more humble and we understand the state of those who are homeless and foodless

• We have always been encouraged to do charity and help the needy, especially in Ramadan — now we have an additional reason to do so

• We have now learnt to wash our hands and practise hygiene — practices that will hopefully remain with us for life

This pandemic is a temporary phase of difficulty which shall pass. But let us see to it that the human spirit does not go missing. Social distancing is needed but the emotional connection should never go out of reach.

We wish you a Happy Ramadan! Stay happy, safe, and healthy!

About the Author

Nazia Sultana is a senior member of the MapmyGenome team. She is a fitness enthusiast who believes that one can maintain good health through healthy eating and activity choices, even while fasting during the Holy Ramadan.