Welcome to the third episode in this series, ‘Beyond The Fast’, that explains Ramadan for more than its stereotypes! Today’s blog post is aimed to allow you to understand the misrepresentation of Ramadan with specially western media, and allow for you to make the distinction between real and fake by giving you the real facts!
Why Is Ramadan Misrepresented?
Around the world, many practices, teachings, worldviews get distorted through the harsh and often sensitive filter called the Western Media. Their ignorance often lies in their false interpretation of cultural and religious practices, that narrowly views the rest of the world. Much of this stems from their preconceived notions about people from certain regions or their religion.
In particular to Ramadan, within the media the trend of misinterpretation and vilifying Islam, has caused those who may not have had any knowledge about the religion to develop assumptions or stereotypes about them. As a whole, Islam is associated with regions of the Middle East, and more specific regions of South Asia and Africa. Many times, Islam is noted within the media as a religion of terrorism due the “many extremists” that rise from the “fundamentals “ of Islam. Titles such as associating violence with Ramadan, or terrorism, strip many Muslims from the ability to fully celebrate their religion in the West. No one expects for everyone to celebrate with them, but to simply show tolerance and respect to those who engage in their individual religious freedom.
More Ways Western Media Represents Islam & Ramadan
Another misrepresentation is the way media portrays fasting. In Western articles and documentaries, Ramadan is often reduced to an extreme act of deprivation from a cruel god, with phrases like “Muslims starve themselves for a month” or “No food or water for 30 days”. This narrative makes it seem like fasting is a form of suffering when in reality, it is a structured and a total choice. If a Muslim chooses not to fast, no one should say anything to them, as it a personal choice and journey between them and God.
Similarly, mainstream media often isolate the practice of Ramadan, portraying it as a strange or outdated tradition rather than a deeply meaningful religious practice. Many articles even fixate on the physical aspect of fasting while ignoring the spiritual side. The result? Ramadan is misunderstood as an endurance challenge rather than a time of connection to God.
For individuals to follow their chosen religion, and follow their ideas of what God has said for them do, is a choice that extends past a decade or time, it is a lifestyle that must be respected. Whether this is Ramadan for Muslims, or Lent for Christians, we must respect each and their right to choose.
Western consumer culture also plays a role in how Ramadan is portrayed. Companies eager to profit from cultural events have commercialized Ramadan and other religious holidays. Unlike Christmas, which is often shown as joyful and generous, Ramadan is sometimes depicted as a struggle. This double standard makes non-Western religious practices seem difficult or extreme, while Western traditions are seen as positive and normal. Both should be seen as positive expressions of religious freedom
The Impact of Media on Public Perception
So, why does all of this matter? Because the media shapes public perception. When Ramadan is misrepresented, non-Muslims may develop biased views, leading to ignorance, microaggressions, or even Islamophobia. It also affects young Muslims growing up in the West who have to constantly correct misconceptions about their own faith.
To truly understand Ramadan, we must look beyond the headlines and stereotypes. Instead of relying on misinformed sources, engage with Muslims directly. Read books and articles written by Muslim scholars and journalists. And most importantly, ask questions, because a conversation is always better than a false assumption.
Thank you all for reading Ep. 3 of the ‘Beyond The Fast’ series, and I hope you’ve enjoyed! Feel free to ask any questions in the comments, and even if you don’t fast, explore this month, however you want, with 1.9 billion Muslims around the world!
See you next time for more insights and reflections!