Ramadan

Ramadan, recognized as the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, shifts earlier by 10 to 12 days each year. This unique timing allows Ramadan to fall in every season within a 33-year cycle, making it one of the most sacred months for Muslims. Celebrated globally, this month is dedicated to fasting, prayer, spiritual contemplation, and fostering unity among believers. As one of the five pillars of Islam, Ramadan is particularly significant, with this year’s observance taking place from April 2 to May 2.

To grasp the profound importance of Ramadan in Islam, we must journey back to 610 A.D., the year when Muhammad, an Arabian man, found himself meditating in the cave of Hira near Mecca. During this moment of reflection, the angel Jibril visited him, revealing the initial verses that would eventually form the Qur’an. The angel conveyed that these words were directly from Allah, the one true God, amidst a culture where multiple deities were commonly worshipped. Following this divine encounter, Muhammad was instructed to recite what he had learned, despite being illiterate at the time. This marked the beginning of Muhammad’s role as the final prophet sent by Allah to disseminate the teachings of Islam.

The moment when Muhammad first encountered Jibril is celebrated as Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power. Many Muslims believe this significant night falls on the 27th night of the lunar calendar, while others hold that it can be on any of the odd nights during the last ten days of Ramadan.

Historically, Ramadan is intertwined with several key revelations:

1312 B.C.: The Torah is believed to have been revealed to Moses on the second day of Ramadan.
1010 B.C.: The Psalms (Zabur) were revealed to David on the 18th day of Ramadan.
70 A.D.: The Gospel was bestowed upon Jesus on the 12th day of Ramadan.
630 A.D.: Prophet Muhammad’s conquest of Mecca occurred on the 10th day of Ramadan.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ramadan

Is fasting during Ramadan mandatory?Fasting is required only for Muslims who have reached puberty. Children before this age are encouraged to fast partially or on specific days, but those who are seriously ill, elderly, or unable to fast due to health concerns are exempt.

Why does Ramadan occur in different seasons?Ramadan follows the Hijri calendar, which is lunar and comprises 354 or 355 days. Consequently, it takes approximately 30 years for Ramadan to return to the same season.

What actions invalidate a fast?Deliberately eating or drinking, engaging in intimate relations, smoking, and menstrual bleeding can nullify a fast. However, if someone eats or drinks unintentionally, their fast remains valid.

How to Embrace Ramadan:

Gather with family: It’s traditional to invite loved ones over for “suhoor” (the pre-dawn meal) and “iftar” (the meal to break the fast). The spirit of togetherness welcomes both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Charitable giving: Many Muslims choose to give to those in need during Ramadan, typically donating at least 2.5% of their wealth. This can be directed to individuals they know or local charities.
Avoid negative behaviors: Muslims strive to abstain from negative actions such as anger, jealousy, and complaints during Ramadan, focusing instead on positive behavior.

Five Fascinating Facts About Ramadan

Boosts Mental Clarity: The focus achieved during Ramadan can enhance brain function and reduce stress.
Detoxifies the Body: Fasting provides an opportunity for the body to clean out the digestive system.
Improves Nutrient Absorption: Ramadan can lead to more efficient metabolism, allowing for better nutrient uptake from food.
Lowers Cholesterol: Observing Ramadan positively influences lipid profiles, contributing to lower cholesterol levels.
Helps Prevent Diabetes: Fasting can stabilize glucose levels, potentially preventing Type 2 diabetes.

Why Ramadan is Cherished

Community Bonding: Ramadan fosters closer ties among neighbors and the broader community, particularly through the distribution of food to those in need.
Cultivating Good Habits: The essence of Ramadan lies in self-improvement, with individuals striving to understand the Qur’an, practice charity, and shed negative habits.
Eid Preparations: Celebrated immediately after Ramadan, Eid is a significant aspect of the month, filled with plans for new clothes, family gatherings, and gifting.

Ramadan Dates