Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is regarded as the holiest period in Islam. It is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity.
The fast begins at dawn and ends at sunset each day, during which Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations.
Ramadan commemorates the first revelation of the holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W, an event known as Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), believed to fall within the last ten days of the month.
Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan shifts about 10 to 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are physically and mentally fit.
However, exemptions apply to children, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, travelers, and those who are ill.
Missed fasts are typically made up later or compensated through charitable acts, depending on circumstances.
What Happens During Ramadan
Each day begins with a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor and ends with Iftar, the meal to break the fast at sunset. Many Muslims break their fast with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.
In addition to fasting, Muslims increase acts of worship. Special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh are performed at mosques after the Isha prayer. The final ten nights are particularly significant, as many believers seek Laylat al-Qadr, which is described in the Quran as better than a thousand months.
Charity, known as zakat and sadaqah, also increases during Ramadan. Many Muslims choose this month to give more generously to the needy.
Do’s During Ramadan
Muslims are encouraged to:
- Observe daily fasting from dawn to sunset
- Increase prayers and recitation of the Holy Quran
- Engage in acts of kindness and charity
- Practice patience, humility, and self-discipline
- Seek forgiveness and spiritual growth
- Strengthen family and community ties
The month is seen as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and moral reflection.
Don’ts During Ramadan
During fasting hours, Muslims must avoid:
- Eating and drinking
- Smoking
- Marital relations
- Intentional vomiting
Beyond physical abstinence, believers are also urged to avoid sinful behavior such as lying, gossiping, arguing, or engaging in immoral conduct.
The spiritual essence of Ramadan goes beyond hunger and thirst; it emphasizes self-control and ethical behavior.
How Muslims Double Their Efforts
Ramadan is often described as a month when Muslims “double their efforts” in worship. Many increase the number of daily prayers, spend more time reading the Quran, attend mosques more frequently, and give more in charity.
Some Muslims aim to complete the entire Quran at least once during the month. Others engage in extended night prayers, particularly during the last ten days. Itikaf, a spiritual retreat observed in mosques during the final days of Ramadan, is another practice embraced by those seeking deeper devotion.
For many, Ramadan is not only about fasting but about transforming habits, strengthening faith, and building discipline that continues beyond the month.
Why Ramadan Matters
Ramadan represents a time of spiritual cleansing, gratitude, and empathy for those less fortunate. By experiencing hunger and thirst, Muslims are reminded of the struggles faced by millions around the world.
The holy month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a festive celebration marked by communal prayers, charity, and family gatherings.
For Muslims, Ramadan is a sacred opportunity to reconnect with faith, community, and purpose, a month where spiritual commitment intensifies and devotion reaches its peak.
