Ramadan is one of the most significant and sacred months in Islam, observed by millions of Muslims around the world. It’s a time of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth. Whether you’re observing Ramadan yourself or just curious about its meaning, here are 10 key things to know.
- Ramadan Is the Ninth Month of the Islamic Calendar
Ramadan falls in the ninth month of the Hijri (Islamic) calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. Because the Islamic calendar is about 10–12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan occurs at different times each year.
- Fasting from Dawn to Sunset
Muslims fast from sunrise (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib), meaning they refrain from food, drink, smoking, and even chewing gum during daylight hours. The fast is broken each evening with Iftar, the meal that starts with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- It’s More Than Just Fasting
While fasting is the most well-known aspect of Ramadan, the month is also about self-discipline, charity, prayer, and spiritual reflection. Muslims focus on improving their character, avoiding negative behaviors, and strengthening their connection with God.
- The Importance of Suhoor and Iftar
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins, and Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Suhoor helps sustain energy throughout the day, while Iftar often begins with dates and water before moving on to a full meal.
- Special Prayers: Taraweeh
During Ramadan, many Muslims perform Taraweeh, extra prayers offered at night after the regular Isha prayer. These prayers, often held in mosques, involve the recitation of long portions of the Quran.
- The Quran Was Revealed During Ramadan
Muslims believe that the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the month of Ramadan. This is why many Muslims dedicate extra time to reading and reciting the Quran throughout the month.
- The Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr)
One of the most spiritually significant nights in Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power). It is believed to occur in the last 10 days of Ramadan, with many considering the 27th night to be the most likely date. Worship on this night is said to be more rewarding than a thousand months of devotion.
- Charity and Helping Others
Ramadan is a time for giving, and Zakat (charity) plays an essential role. Muslims are encouraged to donate to those in need, either through Zakat al-Fitr (a small donation given before Eid) or through general acts of generosity.
- Not Everyone Is Required to Fast
Certain groups are exempt from fasting, including:
Children who haven’t reached puberty
Elderly people
Pregnant, nursing, or menstruating women
Travelers
People with health conditions
Those who cannot fast may make up for it later or give charity as compensation.
- Eid al-Fitr Marks the End of Ramadan
After a month of fasting, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyful holiday filled with prayers, family gatherings, and feasts. It begins with a special Eid prayer at the mosque, followed by a day of celebration, exchanging gifts, and sharing food with loved ones.
Ramadan is a deeply spiritual and transformative time, focused on self-improvement, gratitude, and devotion. Whether you observe it or simply want to understand it better, these key facts highlight the significance and beauty of this holy month.
