Ramadan is a month of reflection, prayer, and giving for Muslims around the world. Despite its universal significance, the experience of fasting varies greatly depending on geographical location, climate, and cultural background. For Muslim converts in places like New Zealand and Iceland, Ramadan presents unique challenges and adaptations.

Ramadan in Hastings, New Zealand

Hastings, located in the heart of the Hawke’s Bay wine region on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is known for its lush landscapes and classic Kiwi culture. However, within this picturesque setting, small Muslim communities, including Maori converts, practice their faith, often against the backdrop of a predominantly non-Muslim society.

One such convert is Abdulaziz, formerly known as Carlos Brookin. A Maori descendant, he embraced Islam despite the rarity of the faith among indigenous New Zealanders. Alongside his friend, also a convert, Abdulaziz experiences Ramadan with relatively short fasting hours in winter, lasting around eight to nine hours. This provides some ease compared to other regions, but it also shortens the window for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (meal to break the fast).

During Ramadan, the preparation of traditional meals like hangi—a traditional Maori method of cooking using heated rocks underground—adds a cultural touch to the experience. The community bonds over these meals, reinforcing the values of sharing and gratitude central to Ramadan.

The Contrast: Ramadan in Reykjavik, Iceland

On the other side of the world, in Reykjavik, Iceland, the fasting experience is vastly different. As the northernmost capital in Europe, Reykjavik experiences extreme variations in daylight hours. In the summer months, the sun barely sets, resulting in fasting days that can last up to 21 hours.

For Icelandic Muslim converts like Muhammad Ali, formerly Oliver Halderson, and Noor, previously Agal Broner, Ramadan poses significant physical and spiritual challenges. With little nighttime to rest and refuel, they must rely on discipline and faith to endure long fasting hours.

Fishing, a common pastime in Iceland, becomes a form of distraction and reflection during fasting. Muhammad Ali, an avid fisherman, finds solace in the activity, helping him cope with the long days without food or drink.

Navigating Fasting Hours in Extreme Climates

Fasting in places with extreme daylight variations has long been a topic of Islamic jurisprudence. The Islamic Fiqh Council issued a fatwa in 1982 allowing Muslims in such regions to either follow the fasting schedule of the closest moderate country or base their fasts on Mecca’s timing. While this provides guidance, many still struggle with adapting to their unique circumstances.

One Icelandic convert recalls seeking advice from scholars in Cairo, only to receive no response. Eventually, a 1983 fatwa from Al-Azhar in Egypt confirmed that in cases of extreme daylight hours, following Mecca’s fasting schedule was permissible.

The Spiritual Journey of Converts

For both Abdulaziz in New Zealand and Muhammad Ali in Iceland, Islam was a turning point in their lives. Abdulaziz, once involved in gang activities, had a near-death experience that led him to search for meaning. Attending Jumu’ah (Friday prayers) for the first time deeply moved him, ultimately guiding him toward embracing Islam.

Similarly, Muhammad Ali reflects on his past life, acknowledging how Islam transformed his mindset and behavior. He recalls his reckless youth, drinking and living without spiritual awareness. Discovering Islam brought discipline and peace into his life, making even the challenges of fasting worthwhile.

A Shared Faith, Different Journeys

Despite the stark contrast in fasting experiences between New Zealand and Iceland, one thing remains constant: the unifying power of Ramadan. Whether fasting for nine hours or 21, converts like Abdulaziz and Muhammad Ali find strength in their faith, adapting to their environments while holding on to the core values of Islam.

Their journeys highlight the beauty of diversity within the Muslim community, demonstrating that regardless of location, the essence of Ramadan—reflection, self-discipline, and spiritual growth—remains the same.