Editor’s note: Allah means God in Arabic and can be used interchangeably. The abbreviation PBUH means ‘Peace be upon him’, which is used when referring to a prophet out of respect. SWT is an abbreviation of the Arabic phrase Subhanahu wa ta’ala, meaning may ‘He be praised and exalted’ or ‘Glory be to Him, the Exalted’ . This phrase is used out of respect by Muslims when referring to Allah. For reference, the author is Muslim and bases this article upon their personal knowledge. Some practices may differ depending on the different Islamic sects, however these are the general traditions.
The sighting of the crescent moon was anticipated by Muslims all around the world as Ramadan drew near last week. Around 1.9 billion people will be taking part in the celebrations of this month. The Islamic holy month is celebrated through fasting, prayer, and charity. Saudi Arabia reported that Ramadan began on March 1, after seeing the crescent moon on the evening of Feb. 28, according to Al Arabiya, although there were slight variations based on location. It’s predicted to end sundown on March 29 or 30, depending on the next sighting of the crescent moon.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar which is based on the lunar cycles. Muslims believe it is the month in which the first verses of the Quran, Islam’s main scripture, was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Allah (SWT) around 1,400 years ago on the Night of Power. When the month begins, the gates of heaven are opened, while the gates of hell are closed and Allah (SWT)’s forgiveness fully extended upon everyone. Believers have a higher chance to seek forgiveness, engage in good deeds, and avoid sin because of the lack of temptation. The month is a time to strengthen a believer’s connection with Allah (SWT), along with engaging in more good deeds and acts of selflessness.
During the duration of this month, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, fully abstaining from water and food during this period, which is around 11-16 hours. This fast is a part of one of the Five Pillars of Islam, called sawm. Fasting is mandatory for all Muslims who have reached puberty and are healthy. Travellers, women on their periods, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people with chronic health conditions are exempt from fasting. However, they are obligated to make up their fasts at a later date. If they cannot make up these fasts due to a long-term condition, they are obligated to to pay fidyah, which are donations of food or money to a poor person, for every day they missed.
Fasting demonstrates spiritual discipline to Muslims, while becoming closer to Allah (SWT). It is also a way for believers to empathize with the poor and emphasize gratitude towards their lives. Cutting out distractions from a believer’s life also allows them to direct more focus to their relationship and dependence on Allah (SWT) and trains them to resist temptation. The first of the five prayers Muslims pray daily is called fajr and officially marks Many non-Muslims take part in fasting during Ramadan to demonstrate solidarity and improve their discipline.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims begin their day before the break of dawn with a breakfast-like meal called suhur/suhoor. It’s eaten before the first of five daily prayers, Fajr. The length and difficulty of fasting varies based on the year, with winter months being easier and summer months being harder. For instance, Ramadan in 2016 took place during the long, hot summer months of June and July, where some Muslims, depending on their location, fasted an upwards of 20 hours. After the prayer call, adhan, for Maghrib goes out and this prayer is performed, iftar commences. Iftar is the main meal of this month, where fast is broken, traditionally with a small fruit like dates, then a larger meal, which is often eaten with friends and family. Masjids, also known as mosques, and other Muslim organizations often host iftar gatherings. After praying Isha, Muslims pray two special prayers, unique to this holy month in order, called Taraweeh and Witr. These are often prayed at a masjid, where an imam, an Islamic religious leader, leads prayer.
Muslims have a variety of practices during Ramadan, but these boil down to a few major traditions. Muslims are encouraged to start and finish the Quran during this month. Lots of believers also cut out distractors in their life, like music, social media, TV and movies, along with unhealthy habits and immoral behavior. Muslims also pay Zakat al-Fitr, ahead of Eid al-Fitr. Many Islamic scholars recommend that this mandatory almsgiving should be given in food to the needy, rather than a portion of a person’s income, like the annual Zakat al-Maal.
The month consists of three Ashras, or stages. The first 10 days are called the Days of Mercy, or Rehmah, where Muslims seek Allah (SWT)’s mercy and blessings. They also especially practice selflessness and mercy towards others. The following ten days, which are the 11th through 20th days of Ramadan, are known as the Days of Forgiveness, or Maghfirah. During this time, Muslims regret and repent for their sins. Towards the end of the month are the last ten days of Ramadan, which is the third Ashra, known as the Days of Safety, or Nija. This holds a special significance for Muslims, especially since the Night of Power, or Laylat-ul-Qadr, takes place in the last 10 days. It’s widely regarded to take place on the 27th night, but cannot be officially confirmed. Worship is heavily intensified during this period and some practice Itikaf, staying in seclusion in a masjid, performing various acts of worship.
The end of Ramadan is celebrated by Eid al-Fitr, also known as the smaller Eid. Eid al-Fitr is expected to take place on March 30 or 31, depending on the sighting of the moon. Eid al-Fitr translates to “the festival of breaking fast” and marks the beginning of the next Islamic month, Shawwal. Muslims celebrate this day by performing a special, shortened Eid prayer, then partake in large festivities, often accompanied by family, sweet treats, and plentiful meals. It’s also a common tradition for elders to give children money, called Eidi, or small gifts. In some countries, Eid celebrations last up to three days.
Ramadan is a special month that both Muslims and non-Muslims can partake in, demonstrating the beautiful unity the holiday has.