Muscat: Ramadhan is the holy month for Muslims around the world, but it has the unique strength of bringing together people of all faiths.
The finest example of this togetherness is the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC) countries including Oman. Though a Muslim majority and governed as per the Sharia law, GCC is the home to a population of different nationalities and religions.
As Muslims observe fasting (not eating or drinking) from sunrise to sunset every day, in many workplaces in the Sultanate of Oman, one can come across a sight of camaraderie and mutual respect for colleagues, be it Muslims or none-Muslims.
"I have a lot of respect for my non-Muslim colleagues because they extend us all types of support during the holy month because fasting can be difficult in the early days or during the summer month, when the fasting can extend to nearly 17 hours," Zamzam, a citizen employed in a private firm, said.
She added, "I also thank my management for relaxing working hours for non-Omanis in our company as they too indirectly observe the fasting with us."
On the other hand, non-Muslim expatriates too have high regard for their fasting colleagues.
"My colleagues invite me for iftar and they tell me not to get into self-imposed restrictions on eating and drinking, but we have to take into account that fasting involves lots of exertion while refraining from food and water,” Roshan Singh, a resident of Oman for nearly two decades, said.
It is not just at workplaces, but also at home where the holy month of Ramadhan is observed with mutual respect.
This camaraderie may not be limited to the Sultanate of Oman and the wider GCC, but the region at large that provides the finest example of togetherness and harmony.
Ramadhan is not just about fasting, it is also a month for charity, which is also observed by people cutting across regions.
Ramadhan gives importance to charity and giving back to the community. Muslims are told of the significance of compassion, empathy, and generosity towards those in need.
Through acts of charity, people can express gratitude and extend compassion towards others, embodying the values of empathy and kindness.
Charity holds a special significance during Ramadhan, as it is believed that the rewards for good deeds are multiplied during this blessed month. The charity includes providing food and financial assistance to those in need.
One can come across charity boxes across public places and people make donations irrespective of religion.
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