By Kania Adriana, Student of STAI Al Fatah Cileungsi
Iceland, a small Nordic country renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, glaciers, and the aurora borealis, might not be the first place that comes to mind when discussing Ramadan.
However, for the small Muslim community there, Ramadan is a deeply meaningful yet uniquely challenging time. With a Muslim population of only around 1,500 out of Iceland’s total population of less than 400,000, Ramadan in Iceland is observed with a spirit of unity and resilience.
Despite being a minority, the Muslim community in Iceland has found ways to adapt and thrive, turning challenges into opportunities for spiritual growth and community building.
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The Muslim community in Iceland is a vibrant and diverse group, comprising immigrants from Muslim-majority countries such as Somalia, Syria, Morocco, and Indonesia, as well as native Icelandic converts to Islam.
This diversity enriches the community, bringing together a variety of cultural traditions and practices during Ramadan. Despite their small numbers, the community is highly active and enthusiastic in observing Ramadan.
The Reykjavik Mosque, the only mosque in Iceland, serves as the central hub for religious activities during this holy month. It is not just a place of worship but also a cultural and social center where Muslims gather to celebrate their faith and traditions.
One of the most significant challenges faced by Muslims in Iceland during Ramadan is the extended duration of daylight. Located near the Arctic Circle, Iceland experiences the “midnight sun” phenomenon during the summer months. When Ramadan falls in the summer, the sun can be visible for nearly 24 hours a day. This results in extremely long fasting periods, sometimes lasting 21 to 22 hours a day. For Muslims, this poses a unique challenge, as fasting from dawn to sunset becomes physically demanding.
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To address this, the Muslim community in Iceland follows a fatwa (religious ruling) issued by local scholars, which recommends adhering to the fasting times of the nearest Muslim-majority countries, such as Turkey or Morocco, or following the sunset and sunrise times in Mecca. This decision allows them to observe fasting more comfortably without enduring hunger and thirst for almost an entire day. This adaptation highlights the flexibility and resilience of the Muslim community in Iceland, as they find practical solutions to maintain their religious obligations.
As in other countries, Ramadan in Iceland is observed based on the Islamic lunar calendar, which depends on the sighting of the moon. However, due to differences in time zones and geographical conditions, the determination of the start of Ramadan may slightly differ from other countries. The Muslim community in Iceland typically follows the decision of local Islamic organizations or refers to the timings of nearby Muslim-majority countries. This ensures unity and coordination within the community, allowing everyone to begin and end Ramadan together.
The Reykjavik Mosque, located in Iceland’s capital, serves as the focal point for Ramadan activities. The mosque is not only a place for prayer but also a gathering spot for the Muslim community to break their fast together (iftar) and perform Taraweeh prayers. These communal iftars are a highlight of Ramadan, as they bring people together to share meals and strengthen bonds. The mosque also organizes various social and religious activities, such as lectures, zakat collection, and charitable initiatives, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Beyond the mosque, many Muslim families in Iceland host iftar gatherings at their homes. These gatherings provide an opportunity to strengthen bonds of kinship and share the joy of Ramadan with fellow Muslims. For many, these intimate gatherings are a cherished tradition, offering a sense of belonging and connection in a country where Muslims are a minority.
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For Muslims in Iceland, Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is also a time to strengthen their faith and Islamic identity. Living in a predominantly non-Muslim society, Ramadan offers a moment to reflect on the values of diversity and tolerance. Many Icelandic Muslims use this time to explain the principles of Islam to their friends and colleagues, helping to reduce misconceptions and foster interfaith understanding. This outreach is particularly important in a country where Islam is often misunderstood or misrepresented.
Moreover, Ramadan is a time for giving and sharing. The Muslim community in Iceland often engages in charitable activities, such as providing meals to the homeless or collecting donations for the less fortunate in Muslim-majority countries. These acts of kindness and generosity reflect the true spirit of Ramadan, emphasizing compassion and solidarity with those in need.
Observing Ramadan in Iceland requires adaptability and creativity. In addition to coping with the long fasting hours, Icelandic Muslims must also adjust to the country’s unique weather conditions. Although summers in Iceland are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging between 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, the extended daylight can disrupt sleep patterns and daily routines. Many Muslims in Iceland adjust their schedules to accommodate the long days, often staying up late to perform Taraweeh prayers and waking up early for Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal).
To maintain the spirit of Ramadan, many Icelandic Muslims participate in religious activities at the mosque, such as Taraweeh prayers and Quran recitation. They are also actively involved in social initiatives, such as organizing communal iftars or visiting fellow Muslims in need. These activities not only strengthen their faith but also foster a sense of community and belonging.
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The Reykjavik Mosque plays a crucial role in supporting the Muslim community during Ramadan. It serves as a spiritual and social hub, offering a space for prayer, reflection, and community gatherings. The mosque’s leadership works tirelessly to organize events and activities that cater to the needs of the community, ensuring that everyone feels included and supported. From hosting iftar meals to organizing educational programs, the mosque is at the heart of Ramadan celebrations in Iceland.
Ramadan in Iceland may come with its unique challenges, but the determination to observe it with devotion remains unwavering. For the small Muslim community there, Ramadan is a time to strengthen faith, build solidarity, and share compassion with others. In a society where Muslims are a minority, Ramadan becomes an opportunity to demonstrate the true values of Islam: peace, tolerance, and care for humanity.
Amid cultural and religious diversity, Ramadan in Iceland teaches us that faith knows no geographical or demographic boundaries. No matter where we are, the spirit of Ramadan remains the same: drawing closer to Allah, improving oneself, and sharing joy with others. Through their resilience and adaptability, the Muslim community in Iceland exemplifies the universal message of Ramadan, proving that even in the most unexpected places, the light of faith can shine brightly. []
Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)
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