What is Ramadan and why do Muslims fast?
Muslims across the world will be celebrating the Islamic month of Ramadan from next week. Here’s what you need to know.
It’s expected to start on the evening of Friday 28 February, and end on Sunday 30 March, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the holiest periods of worship.
Muslims will fast from dawn to dusk – and are expected to abstain from eating, drinking and bad habits. The end of the fasting day is marked with dates, water, and a meal.
The month lasts around 29 or 30 days and appears to shift forward approximately 11 days each year as the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle instead of the Gregorian calendar.
Why is Ramadan significant for Muslims?
It marks the period in which Muslims believe the Koran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad – and so are encouraged to read and reflect on their holy book.
It’s also the month when Muslims practice one of the five pillars of Islam, Sawm, or fasting.
Fasting is required for every Muslim who has passed the age of puberty and is in good health.
However, there are exemptions for pregnant or menstruating women, or if you are travelling.
Muslims believe that during this month, their good deeds are multiplied – and so are encouraged to strengthen their relationship with Allah, offer charity and repent.
How is Ramadan celebrated?
Muslims celebrate Ramadan by decorating their homes with lights and banners.
Friends and family members often greet one another with ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ or ‘Ramadan Kareem’ to mark the start of the holy month – and will meet at ‘Iftar’ gatherings in the evening, to break their fasts together.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Fasting provides Muslims the opportunity to acquire a sense of control over their needs, desires and distractions, giving them room for a heightened sense of introspection and their purpose in life – to worship Allah.
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Fasting also allows Muslims to empathise more deeply with those suffering around the world, for whom going without meals for long periods is not a choice.
Eid
Once Ramadan is over, it’s Eid – the festival of breaking the fast.
Celebrations for Eid last for three days, during which people gather to celebrate the end of the holy month.
Muslims commonly celebrate with good food, Eid prayers at the mosque, and by wearing new clothes.