There’s 2 ways this post will come across 1) You’re reading this as a Muslim and recalling what you go through every year or 2) You’re reading this as a non-Muslim and are curious as to what your Muslim colleagues/friends mean when they say Ramadan is approaching.
After reading this article you’ll either have something that you can forward onto your colleagues and friends or you’ll finally be able to understand what it means when someone you know is getting ready for Ramadan!
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and fasting during it is one of the 5 pillars of Islam. The month’s primary activity consists of fasting between the hours of sunrise and sunset and by doing so, allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith without interruptions. We list out 10 bullet points that’ll give you a great overview of Ramadan and provide a great base if you want to learn more.
What is Ramadan?
1) Ramadan is the 9th and most sacred month of the Islamic calendar. Due to the Islamic calendar following the moon, the month will start 11 days earlier than last year if comparing to the common Gregorian calendar.
2) A common greeting at the start of the month is ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ which translates to Happy Ramadan.
3) Muslims will start the fast by waking up before dawn to have a light meal called suhoor. They will then not eat or drink anything until sunset upon which they will open their fast with a meal called iftar. Traditionally iftar will start with some dates – which is a great gift to give for Muslims in Ramadan!
4) Consequentially, Muslims may be more tired during the day as they slowly get use to waking up in the middle of the night to eat. However, by fasting and feeling the effects, Muslims are reminded of how fragile humans can be and how we’re dependent on God for the resources that He provides. Being hungry and thirsty throughout the day also allows for greater remembrance and compassion for the poor and the struggles that they face.
5) Ramadan is also when Muslims try and do more physical good deeds than usual by giving to charity or helping those less fortunate.
6) Many Muslims attempt to finish the recitation of the Quran (holy book) during the month. Some people perform an optional prayer called taraweh which takes place an hour after iftar and is usually 1.5-2hrs long. The aim here is to also finish the recitation of the Quran in congregation.
7) Muslims don’t mind if you eat in front of them, we understand not everyone is fasting!
8) Ramadan is also is also the time of the year where Muslims attempt to put all worldly matters to one side and focus on their connection with God. Therefore as much as Ramadan is a physical cleanse, the month is also seen as a spiritual cleanse. The amount of worship tends to ramp up in the last 10 days of Ramadan as they are more rewarding. It is during these days that the Quran began to be revealed, with the specific night called Laylat-ul-Qadr or The Night of Power.
9) Muslims enjoy any questions about Ramadan and like it when people take an interest in it!
10) The month culminates after 29/30 days (depending on the moon sighting) with a celebration called Eid-ul-Fitr or Festival of Breaking the Fast. A common greeting on the day is ‘Eid Mubarak’ which translates to Happy Eid and is marked by celebrations where families and friends get together for Eid parties.
These 10 bullet points should hopefully give everyone a good understanding of what Muslims will go through over the month of Ramadan. Always feel comfortable asking Muslims any questions you may have about the month, no question will be taken as silly!
