Ramadan has been around for centuries. Muslims from around the globe come together as one and take part in this sacred month every year. Throughout the years, generations upon generations have come and lived in this world. Yet, the Holy month of constraint has remained in itself with the same principles and rules.
One could expect that with countless eras that our world has grasped upon, some traditions could change. And while many times, this has been the case, the question still remains. - Has Ramadan been perceived differently by these generations but at all?
The Strauss–Howe thesis suggests the recurring generation theory. According to it, a new era is devised every 20-25 years, with each generation coming up with their own historical, political, and economic views. It ultimately states how traditional ideas are at risk of being succeeded with newer and bolder “awakenings.”
So, how does a traditional and sacred month change the perspective of the many generations who experience it? Let’s find out!
Ramadan As An Experience
According To Gen Z
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Ramadan has timeless values that have remained unchanged for thousands of years. And while there is no doubt that Muslims of every generation have an expectation to follow it the same way, this is not always the case.
Here, we should not confuse the act of fasting per se taking place in Ramadan but the mindset behind it. Generation Z has seen the world at its prime, with developments of all kinds to a year-long pandemic. It is safe to say just how a series of experiences have shaped their entire age.
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And while one may think that a religious concept like Ramadan could be succeeded into a slightly less sacred version, this is not the case. As this generation experienced their first Ramadan in midst of a pandemic, they quickly adapted! With social media being one of the largest platforms today, virtual Iftars and online Quran classes became the norm.
Although this was anything but the traditional Ramadan experience, Gen Z took something that could’ve become something negative yet made it into something of their own.
It showed just how focused this generation is. Even amidst the chaos of a global obstacle, this generation is to keep strengthening its faith in Islam. Even such kinds of setbacks, although unfortunate, could still make the younger Muslims even closer to their faith.
Ramadan According to Gen Y 
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Much like Generation Z, Millennials have quickly grown to adapt to the world’s developments, changes, and successes. However, when something as timeless as Ramadan comes into the picture, we have known millennials to show more independence.
Rather than practicing Ramadan just for the sake of it, they had developed a more insightful approach. We have seen them use Ramadan as a passion. As a way of making an even better Muslim out of themselves. So, seeking not only the way you fast but why you fast.
In Islam, it is required to take fasting in Ramadan and complete it as a task. However, younger Muslims have tailored it into more of a personal challenge than just a religious one. They have fashioned it into not only becoming a better Muslim, but also a better human being.
Millennials have quickly impacted the world with their newly devised approach to religion. Even people from all around the world began fasting, even for a few days.
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This is the kind of impact younger Muslims have had on the world. Plus, with things like Google being so accessible, it is quickly becoming a way of finding their spirituality by becoming closer to Allah.
Younger Muslims have been seen to use technology to find out even more about their faith and its history. With different opinions of Muslims from around the globe. They’ve taken part in such advancements while remaining in touch with their faith. It is truly inspiring.
