MADRASA
An introduction to Queer Theology in Islam
WEEK ONE:
Ramadan
What even is Ramadan?
and how can Ramadan be used not only to strengthen your faith, but also connect more deeply with your queerness?
السَلَامُ عَلَيْكمُ وَرَحْمَةُ الله وَرَكَاتُهُ
Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims that is seen as a way of connecting, exploring, and strengthening your faith in Allah, and the wider religion of Islam.
Fasting and praying are a focal point of the month, but there are lots of other practices to engage in, particularly sadagah, which is the voluntary act of charity. Sadagah can be a way of doing good deeds for yourself and others.
At Hidayah, we love gathering Queer Muslims together, especially in Ramadan.
We're hosting Iftar events across the UK and an Eid event.
What even is Ramadan?
and how can Ramadan be used not only to strengthen your faith, but also connect more deeply with your queerness?
السَّلَمُ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحَمَةً لله بَرَكَاتُهُ
It is important to remember that not everyone experiences Ramadan in the same way. Capacity differs, physically, mentally, socially, and financially, and Islam has always recognised that people's circumstances change.
Sadaqah can be simple
Sadaqah is the voluntary act of charity. It differs from zakat (the obligatory annual payment), and it can be as inexpensive as you want.
Some easy ideas include:
• Giving someone a compliment
• Helping others
• Donating items or money
If you're low on energy, sadagah can be small: a kind message, offering time, making du'a for someone else, sharing food, or just being a safe person for another queer Muslim.
The Story of Ramadan
Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad marking the beginning of divine guidance for the Muslim community. It is closely connected to Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), a night described as better than a thousand months.
Ramadan has always been a time of revelation, reflection, and transformation.
شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِي أُنزِلَ فِيهِ الْقُرْءَانُ هَدى لَلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَتٍ مِنَ ٱلْهَدَىٰ وَٱلْفُرْقَانِ
"The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur'an was sent down as guidance for humankind."
-Qur'an 2:185
Hidayah LGBT+ introduces #Madrasa, an introduction to queer theology in Islam 🫶
From the basics of Ramadan, to looking at queer interpretations of Qur'an and Hadith passages, the project seeks deep reflection and discussion.