A Blessed Month

Shamina is a Muslim woman who has lived in New Zealand for 9 years with her husband and four children. She says one of the things she loves is the feeling of community. “Here, there are people from many different parts of the world who we can meet and share our thoughts with.”

For the Muslim community, one of the special aspects of faith is observing the holy month of Ramadan. This is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and a blessed month with a focus on compassion and charity.

For this special month, fasting is compulsory for everyone, with a few exceptions for children, pregnant woman and those who are ill. After spending many cycles of Ramadan in New Zealand, Shamina says “I can strongly say that Kiwis are supportive – there are no challenges for Muslims – it is a very good country”

For non-Muslims, the concept of fasting could make you think of deprivation, but instead it’s a time for people to come together as a community, and a time of forgiveness and generosity. Shamina explains that “it’s a blessed month and different to the other times of the year”

For Muslims, fasting ensure togetherness, brings forth equity, strengthens love and affection, restores social justice and facilitate the unity of people. Shamina says charity is also important and that they share 2.5% of their savings during Ramadan by giving to others.

The Muslim community in New Zealand is growing and is diverse in the culture and countries of origin of its followers. Shamina feels that some negative stereotypes associated with the Islamic faith are not as prevalent now and that after the Christchurch terror attacks, there was sense that attitudes were starting to change with more understanding from New Zealand society about their faith.

Talking to Shamina about her experience living as a Muslim in New Zealand was a privilege and made me realise there are more similarities than differences between our cultures if we just take the time to look.