Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. It is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Muslims believe that during this month, the Qur'an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, purification of the soul, and seeking closeness to Allah.
Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a fundamental practice for all adult Muslims. Fasting during this month is not only an act of worship but also a means of developing empathy for the less fortunate, controlling desires, and seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah. It is a time to strengthen one’s relationship with Allah and purify the soul.
Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The start of Ramadan varies depending on the country and the local sighting of the moon. It typically lasts 29 or 30 days, until the next new moon marks the beginning of Eid al-Fitr.
Fasting during the month of Ramadan is an obligatory act of worship for all adult Muslims who are physically and mentally able to do so. Fasting involves abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). It is also an opportunity for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion.
There are certain individuals who are exempt from fasting, including: children, the elderly, the sick, pregnant or breastfeeding women, travelers, and women who are menstruating or post-natal. Those who are exempt but are able can make up the missed fasts later or provide a meal to a poor person for each missed fast (known as fidya).
During Ramadan, Muslims engage in a variety of activities to gain the maximum spiritual benefits, including:
- Increased prayer and recitation of the Qur'an
- Engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah)
- Offering additional voluntary prayers (Nafl prayers), such as Taraweeh at night
- Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah) to help those in need
- Seeking forgiveness for past sins
Fasting during Ramadan brings numerous spiritual benefits such as:
- Strengthening the connection with Allah through devotion and worship
- Purification of the heart and soul by cleansing from worldly distractions
- Increased empathy and compassion for the less fortunate
- Heightened awareness of gratitude and self-discipline
- Seeking Allah's forgiveness for past sins
Maintaining your health during Ramadan is essential for completing the fast successfully:
- Eat a balanced suhoor (pre-dawn meal) with fiber-rich foods to stay full longer.
- Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours to stay hydrated.
- Avoid overeating during iftar (breaking the fast) to prevent indigestion.
- Eat fruits and vegetables to boost vitamins and minerals in your diet.
- Ensure you get adequate sleep by taking naps during the day if needed.
- Engage in light physical activity to maintain fitness but avoid strenuous exercises during fasting hours.
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal consumed before the fast begins. It is highly recommended to eat a nutritious and filling meal to sustain oneself throughout the day. Suhoor should be eaten before the time of Fajr (dawn prayer), and the blessings of this meal are emphasized in the Hadith.
Iftar is the meal taken to break the fast at sunset (Maghrib). It is recommended to break the fast with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Muslims then offer the Maghrib prayer before enjoying the meal. The act of breaking the fast is a time of gratitude and celebration of Allah's mercy.
Taraweeh are special prayers performed during the nights of Ramadan after the Isha prayer. They are voluntary but highly encouraged. The prayer consists of long recitations of the Qur'an and is often prayed in congregation in mosques, though it can also be prayed individually at home. The number of units can vary, but traditionally, 20 rakahs are prayed.
Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree, is believed to be the night when the Qur'an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It falls on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan, commonly believed to be on the 27th night. This night is considered the holiest night in the Islamic calendar, and acts of worship on this night are believed to be more rewarding than those of a thousand months.
While fasting, Muslims are required to refrain from:
- Eating, drinking, or smoking during daylight hours
- Engaging in sexual activity during fasting hours
- Indulging in sinful behavior, such as lying, gossiping, or arguing
- Wasting food or resources
Fasting during Ramadan is an opportunity to earn immense rewards and blessings from Allah. The Qur'an mentions that fasting is a means of attaining Taqwa (God-consciousness), and the reward for fasting is unique, with Allah Himself rewarding the fast. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward will have their past sins forgiven."
Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. It is a day of joy and gratitude for successfully completing the month of fasting. Muslims gather for the special Eid prayer in the morning, followed by celebrations with family and friends. It is also customary to give Zakat al-Fitr (charity) before the Eid prayer to help those in need enjoy the festive occasion.
Zakat al-Fitr is a small amount of charity given at the end of Ramadan to purify the fast and ensure that even the poor can join in the celebration of Eid. It is obligatory for every Muslim who can afford it. The amount is usually based on staple food items such as dates, barley, or wheat, and is distributed to those in need before the Eid prayer.
Here are some important duas (supplications) to recite during Ramadan:
- "اللّهُمَّ بَلِّغْنَا رَمَضَانَ" (O Allah, allow us to reach Ramadan.)
- "اللّهُمَّ إِنِّي لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَبِكَ فَتَحْتُ" (O Allah, I fasted for You, and I believe in You, and I put my trust in You, and with Your blessings, I break my fast.)
- "اللّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنَا مِنْ عُتَقَائِكَ مِنَ النَّارِ فِي رَمَضَانَ" (O Allah, make us among those whom You free from the Fire in Ramadan.)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to fast in Ramadan and follow a disciplined schedule. His fasts were not just about abstaining from food but included increased acts of worship and dhikr. He used to encourage his followers to perform extra acts of kindness and charity during this month, always maintaining humility and patience. Emulating his practices during Ramadan is highly recommended.
If a person misses fasting due to illness, menstruation, travel, or any other valid reason, they are required to make up the missed fasts later. If it is not possible to make them up due to prolonged illness or old age, they can pay fidya, which is feeding a poor person for each missed fast.
While the core practices of Ramadan are universal, the way it is celebrated can vary from country to country. Some traditions include:
- Special foods and drinks prepared for Iftar
- Community gatherings for Iftar
- Decorating homes and mosques with lights
- Ramadan bazaars in some countries where food and supplies are sold
- Special cultural practices like reading the Qur'an aloud in some regions.
Ramadan is a time for Muslims to purify their hearts, increase their devotion to Allah, and engage in acts of worship and charity. It is a month that requires discipline, patience, and reflection. Through fasting, prayer, and good deeds, Muslims strive to attain closeness to Allah and earn His mercy and forgiveness. It is a blessed time for Muslims to strengthen their relationship with Allah and with the community.
