Rachel Woodlock: An Irish experience of Ramadan in lockdown

Dr Rachel Woodlock says the true value of observing a fasting tradition like Ramadan is to develop a consciousness of God and our fellow human beings

At prayer during an Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan in the Islamic Information Centre, Shandon Street, Cork. Picture: Denis Minihane.

“Not even water? Fair play to ye” is the response I most often get when my Irish friends find out fasting during Ramadan involves going without food, drink, and bedroom action from dawn to sunset for around 30 days each year. 

I can see the next thought spelled out on their raised eyebrows and wrinkled foreheads: “Jaysus, I’m glad I only have to give up chocolate for Lent.” I accept their mild pity graciously, but Ramadan is actually a time of celebration and excitement among Muslims.