There is much ancient folklore about the origins of the lanterns, but a popular tale dates their use to a night during the Fatimid dynasty. Fasting is considered to teach self-discipline and reminds us of the suffering of those less fortunate than us.

According to early Javanese beliefs, the month of Ramadan marks the start of a new life cycle and the completion of the previous one. From the Tafsir (Explanation) of the Quran by As-Sadi which provides a non-Arabic speaker like myself, with an English understanding of the words of Allah to the poem in the book The Exquisite Pearl – which explains a classical Arabic poem about the states and stations the heart arrives at as it journeys to Allah. May it be a means for her to enter Jannah al Ferdouse where she will have the best of companions, Ameen.

But no matter what observers have planned for their traditional suhoor and iftar gatherings this year, the spirit of this centuries-old tradition will remain the same as a time for piety and self-reflection. It is customary to decorate the graves with pleasant smelling flowers and is deemed disrespectful if non-fragrant flowers are used.

Our experienced and qualified helpline workers and psychotherapists provide vital support to families who are struggling – from specialist therapeutic support to food vouchers – working closely with grassroots partners.Naheed Ahmed, Senior Specialist Major Trauma Physiotherapist for Clinical and Scientific Services, based at MRI.