At Potje, we love learning more about different cultures and traditions. We saw it as a very special and beautiful opportunity to interview Ghizlane about her special tradition: Ramadan. In this interview, Ghizlane tells us more about this remarkable tradition and how charity, generosity, and consideration for others are central during this period! 

Can you tell us more about the tradition of Ramadan? Why is Ramadan celebrated? 

“Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered a holy month for Muslims around the world. We commemorate in this month that Mohammed received his first message from God and recorded it in the Quran. 

Ramadan is a time of reflection, sacrifice, and self-discipline. Fasting during this month is a way to promote spiritual growth and develop empathy for the economically weaker.”

How do you celebrate Ramadan? What does the month look like for you and your family?

“Ramadan begins at dawn with a meal called Suhoor and ends at sunset with Iftar, the meal with which the fast is broken. Throughout the whole day, while the sun illuminates the world, we eat and drink nothing. During the month, Muslims try to focus on prayer, reading the Quran, and charity. Family plays an important role, and often Iftar meals are shared with family and friends.”

What makes Ramadan so special?

“Ramadan is special because of the deep spiritual significance and the connection it creates within the Muslim community. It is a time of self-reflection and solidarity with those who have less. Fasting helps us to develop self-control and compassion.”

What does Ramadan mean to you as a person?

“For me personally, Ramadan is also a time of self-improvement and spirituality. Fasting helps me become aware of my own behavior and makes me feel much more grateful for the blessings in my life. It is also a period of coming closer to my faith and strengthening family bonds and helping the economically weaker.”

Ramadan is about fasting and giving, how does this giving manifest itself?

“Giving during Ramadan manifests itself in charity, generosity, and consideration for others. In addition to financially contributing to good causes, extra attention is often given to volunteering and helping the economically weaker. It is not just about material gifts, but also about sharing love and care for the community.”

What message would you like to share with the world about this special tradition?

“I would like to emphasize that Ramadan is not just a period of fasting, but an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of empathy, compassion, and connection. 

It is a chance for people from different backgrounds to come together, learn, and grow. The values of self-sacrifice and charity highlighted during Ramadan are universal and can contribute to a more peaceful and understanding world.”

Ramadan potje

Wow, what a beautiful tradition, and Ghizlane, thank you for your wonderful and sincere words! 

Do you also celebrate Ramadan and want to give together with your friends or family? Then use Potje to raise money for your cause.