All About Ramadan

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar, observed by millions of Muslims. It’s not just about fasting; it’s a time for growth of the religion, community, and deep reflection. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. During this month, Muslims fast every day from sunrise to sunset, for the whole month abstaining from food, drinks, and smoking. Children who are young, women who are pregnant or menstruating, travelers, and people who are ill are all exempt from fasting. The primary reason Muslims fast during Ramadan is to develop self-discipline, show empathy for the less fortunate, and grow closer to God (Allah). It’s also believed that fasting helps purify the body and soul, also encouraging personal reflection.

Origin

Ramadan is considered the holiest month of the year because it marks the period when the Qur’an, the sacred text of Islam, was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by the angel Gabriel, specifically during a night known as Laylat al-Qadr or “The Night of Power.” Muslims believe that the Qur’an contains the direct words of Allah (SWT). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said, “When Ramadan begins, the gates of heaven are opened, the gates of hell are closed, and the devils are shackled.”

Why?

Muslims are required to follow the 5 pillars that are the core beliefs and practices of Islam: Confession of Faith (shahada), Prayer (salat), Alms-giving (zakat) which means charity, Fasting (sawm), Pilgrimage (hajj). There are also physical and spiritual reasons too. 

Importance of Charity

Charity is a key element of Ramadan. Muslims believe that acts of kindness and charity are very valuable during this time. Zakat (charity), one of the Five Pillars of Islam, involves giving a portion of one’s wealth to help those in need. During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to give even more, whether through money, food, or time. Many Muslims will donate to charity, feed the hungry, or volunteer during the month, seeking to make a positive impact in their communities.

Daily Routine of one Fasting

The fasting day begins before the sun rises, with a meal called suhoor (the first prayer), which helps provide nourishment for the long day ahead. After sunrise, Muslims must stop eating or drinking anything until sunset. When the fast is broken at sunset, Muslims gather with family and friends for a meal called iftar (the fourth prayer). Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water, followed by a larger meal that includes a variety of foods.

Muslims must pray five times a day: 

Fajr – which is when the sun rises (when you should stop eating) 

Dhuhr – five hours after the first 

Asr – three hours after the second 

Maghrib – two hours later, which is when the sunsets (time you can eat)

Isha – another two hours later 

Eid (al-Fitr)

After the month of Ramadan — Eid al-Fitr, a celebration that marks the end of the month-long fast. On Eid, Muslims gather for communal prayers, followed by feasting, exchanging gifts, and spending time with one another. It is also a time for giving: Muslims are encouraged to offer Zakat al-Fitr, a special charity given to help those in need, so that everyone can join in the celebrations. 

When?

The islamic calendar follows the phases of the moon, commonly known as the lunar cycle. The Ramadan start date for 2025 is expected to fall around 28 February, following the sighting of the moon over Mecca or other countries. Lasting for 29-30 days, Ramadan 2025 will end around the 30th of March, with the celebratory days of Eid al-Fitr estimated to start on March 30th — with a possible difference of a couple of days, all depending on the moon sighting.

Importance of Ramadan

Ramadan is more than just a religious practice; it is a time for self-discipline, reflection, and connection to both the divine and the community. For Muslims, fasting during Ramadan helps cultivate patience, gratitude, and empathy for others while also fostering a sense of religious renewal. 

For those who aren’t familiar with Ramadan, learning about it can help us better understand a significant aspect of Islamic culture and religion. It also highlights universal values like compassion, discipline, and the importance of community. In a diverse world, understanding and respecting different traditions only helps to strengthen the bonds between us all. 

Graphic by Maimoona Yousuf