Ramadan - Ninth Month Of Islamic Calendar
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. The Muslims fast from dawn till sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and sinful behavior. Ramazan is the time of the highest spiritual activity, as charity and kindness are encouraged during this period. The month of Ramadhan ends with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of fasting.
The Beauty of Ramadan: A Celebration of Faith and Human Connection
Ramadan is a time that has great spiritual value to Muslims, as it denotes self-purification and self-restraint along with devotion. Sawm or fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It reminds of less fortunate people and promotes feelings of sympathy, thankfulness, and humility. From Fajr till Maghrib, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and evil deeds, spending time in prayer, Quran recitation, and charitable acts.
Key Practices During Ramadan
Fasting (Sawm): Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. They break their fast with Iftar, traditionally with dates and water, at sunset.
Night Prayers (Taraweeh): Specified prayers at night in the mosque; long portions of the Quran are recited.
Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Giving to those in need is highlighted, with Zakat being a compulsory alms-giving, and Sadaqah referring to voluntary charity.
Laylat al-Qadr: It is referred to as the Night of Decree, which falls during the last ten days of Ramadan. It is believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed, making it more rewarding than a thousand months of worship.
Celebration of Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is a day at the end of Ramadan to mark the completion of a month-long fasting period, otherwise known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast. The event is observed through communal prayers, joyful feasts, and Zakat al-Fitr, the giving of charity by Muslims on Eid Day for those who need it, before offering Eid prayers. Families assemble, giving blessings and gifts in appreciation for spiritual development after the entire fasting month.
FAQs About Ramadan in Islam
What is the date of Ramadan in 2025?
Ramadhan in 2025 is likely to start on Saturday evening, March 1, and end on Sunday evening, March 30, based on moon sightings.
What is Ramadan in Islam?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, devoted to fasting, prayer, reflection, and worship, symbolizing a period of spiritual growth and self-discipline.
What is the starting and ending date of Ramadan?
It is expected to start on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and end on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims fast to purify the soul, increase devotion, and show sympathy to the less fortunate.
What month is Ramadan?
Ramadan falls in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and moves approximately 10-12 days every year into the Gregorian calendar.