Many Muslims around the globe celebrate the annual season of Ramadan bearing some values in them. These are such as togetherness, caring for one another, friendships, collaboration, and comradeship. Leaders of Islam predict and organize the celebrations in different manners targeting various people. This year’s celebration of Ramadan is going to be different compared to the previous ones. 2020’s time, which marks the 1441 Hijri, might be known as the coronavirus affected.
The Predictable Beginning
As of yesterday, Muslims predict the first day of the holy month to begin tomorrow or on Friday this month. The beginning and the end of the period are based on detecting the new moon phase.
When predicted on 29th, the Ramadan season starts tomorrow on the 23rd this April. If not, the period of Shaban is on completion to the highest limit of a month on Friday this week.
Rites Unlikely To Occur
As Muslims approach the Ramadan, the coronavirus disease has disrupted their activities and preparations for the big day. The coronavirus has also affected the markets in which people are to buy essentials for the Ramadan.
Besides, restrictions such as curfews and lockdowns, are likely to hinder the success of the Ramadan rituals to occur. For example, the markets of Egypt are not doing quite well in comparison to past years of economic boom.
The ban on social gatherings will affect the Iftar, a fast-breaking meal, from occurring successfully. This meal brings people together as they distribute meals amongst themselves in crowds.
Also, Tarawih, the post-sunset sequence of prayers, is an important rite that Muslims fear missing it. However, it requires diligence and a high level of proper discipline for oneself. The project of sharing with the less unfortunate will require alterations during such a challenging period. The country of Senegal is to maintain its good ways but in a restricted manner.
Economic Effects
The coronavirus has affected the economy of the world as businesses close because of the virus. Many business people are complaining of poor sales and returns since people are not free from going outside to buy stuff as it was initially.
COVID-19 has damaged the Ramadan economy from Casablanca, via Egypt, Somalia, and Khartoum.
Samir El-Khatib, a stall operator, says “People do not want to visit shops, they are scared of the virus. It is the worst year ever. Compared with last year, we have not even sold a quarter.”
The Exclusions
Most of the countries which have Muslims have put forward measures concerning the crowding of people to contain the disease. However, a west African country like Nigeria, the story is different from the rest.
Some countries which have many Muslims have loosened crowding bans to enable the 24th’s prayers. These countries that have loosened their restrictions comprise Kogi, Niger, and Katsina.
Changes To Observe
Because of the limitations of restrictions, many Muslims have looked for alternatives despite the challenges they are facing. Islamic clerics will give Ramadan lessons via social media. Therefore, one will still benefit despite not being physical.
A blessing in disguise about a lockdown is that families and relatives can know each other better especially for such a period.
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