RAMADAN

A Sacred Month in the Muslim World

Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the period when Muslims believe the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan shifts earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.

For Muslims around the world — whether in villages, megacities, refugee camps, or diaspora communities — Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time marked by fasting, prayer, charity, repentance, and renewed devotion to God.

It is often described as a month of mercy.

The Significance of Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan (known as sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. From dawn until sunset, practicing Muslims abstain from:

Food
Drink
Smoking
Marital relations

The fast is not only physical; it is meant to cultivate:

Self-discipline
Purity of thought
Generosity
Dependence on God
Compassion for the poor

Many Muslims increase their prayer, give to charity (zakat), and seek forgiveness for sins during this month. The final ten days are considered especially sacred, with heightened spiritual intensity.

The month concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a joyful festival marked by communal prayers, meals, new clothes, and acts of generosity.

A TYPICAL DAY DURING RAMADAN

While practice varies across cultures, a typical day often follows this rhythm:
Pre-Dawn (Suhoor)

Families wake before sunrise to eat a light meal and pray. This quiet hour is often peaceful and reflective.
Dawn Prayer

The first of five daily prayers marks the official beginning of the fast.
Daytime

Work and school continue, but energy levels may be lower due to lack of food and water. Many avoid unnecessary distractions and focus on spiritual reflection.
Afternoon & Evening Prayers

Mosques become increasingly active. Community gatherings strengthen during this month.
Sunset (Iftar)

At sunset, the fast is broken — traditionally with dates and water. Families and communities gather for shared meals. In many countries, streets fill with celebration and generosity.
Night Prayers (Tarawih)

Special extended prayers are held in mosques. Portions of the Qur’an are recited nightly throughout the month.

For many Muslims, Ramadan is a time of sincerity — when hearts are softer and spiritual questions more present.