We cannot hope to understand a religion without having knowledge of their key traditions. One of the Five Pillars of Islam for example (the five duties that all Muslims should try to fulfil), is often misunderstood by people outside of the Muslim community. This is Ramadan, which occurs on the ninth month of the Muslim Calendar. It is a time for people to reflect upon those who lead less fortunate lives; and to consider what can be done to help them. It is also the month that the Holy Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad which gives Muslims a chance to reflect on their devotion to Allah and the Holy Prophet. Both these themes are demonstrated through fasting. There must be no eating or drinking in daylight hours for the whole month. Muslims wake up extra early to eat before sunrise, and also have a meal after sunset, allowing a deeper understanding of what other human beings around the world may experience. It is also a chance for the Muslim community to come together, and celebrate their faith on a global scale. When teaching about Ramadan, it is essential that the true meaning behind the tradition comes across to the students. With so much misrepresentation of Islam in the media, religious education can be used to provide a light in a dark tunnel of ignorance.
TrueTube has provided a lesson plan and film which stresses the definition of Ramadan, why the fast is done, and how the achievement is celebrated at the end of the month. The lesson plan provides a range of activities, each demonstrating a different theme involved in this Islamic tradition. The film explores the practicalities of Ramadan in the UK by asking a range of young Muslim’s about their personal experience of the celebration. I can still remember being a young girl and not completely understanding why some of my friends fasted. As I grew up and learnt about the depth of Ramadan and why it is practised, my confusion turned into admiration. It takes a lot of strength to resist temptation, especially when the temptation is surrounding you every single day. It is with resources like this, that such tolerance and admiration can be passed on to the next generation.
TrueTube has provided a lesson plan and film which stresses the definition of Ramadan, why the fast is done, and how the achievement is celebrated at the end of the month. The lesson plan provides a range of activities, each demonstrating a different theme involved in this Islamic tradition. The film explores the practicalities of Ramadan in the UK by asking a range of young Muslim’s about their personal experience of the celebration. I can still remember being a young girl and not completely understanding why some of my friends fasted. As I grew up and learnt about the depth of Ramadan and why it is practised, my confusion turned into admiration. It takes a lot of strength to resist temptation, especially when the temptation is surrounding you every single day. It is with resources like this, that such tolerance and admiration can be passed on to the next generation.