“The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran; a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the right and wrong. And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other days. Allah desires for you ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that perhaps you may be thankful”
The holy Ramadan is one of the ‘Five Pillars of Islam beliefs’.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. This year Ramadan starts on May 27.
Time period
Ramadan lasts for one complete moon cycle, which is usually 29 or 30 days. The duration always depends upon the moon sighting.
How will we know when it starts?
A committee in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, will make an official announcement after moon sighting.
How to greet each other?
Greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem”.
How does Muslim religion observe Ramadan?
Muslims are required to fast from dawn to dusk every day throughout the month of Ramadan. Those who are ill, elderly, diabetic, pregnant, menstruating or breastfeeding can avoid fasting. Those who travel or are unwell during the period of Ramadan may fast later.
Children are not required to fast unless they have reached puberty.
Muslims should refrain from sexual relations as well as sinful behaviour.
During Ramadan, Muslims pray every night for 30 days, reciting different chapters each day until the Quran is completed by Eid Al Fitar.
Why is fasting important?
Fasting redirects the heart away from distractions. Its purpose is to cleanse the soul by freeing it from impurities.
It is also a time for Muslims to practice self-discipline, sacrifice, and empathy for those less fortunate. Ramadan encourages generosity and charity.
When to break, fasting?
Fast may be broken at sunset before Maghrib prayers after ‘Azaan’. This occurs just after sunset. Dates are traditionally the first food to be eaten each evening. The fast-breaking meal is called Iftar.
When to start fasting?
Each morning before sunrise, Muslims engage in a pre-fast meal. Afterwards, they start with the Fajr prayers.
After Ramadan
Eid Al Fitr is the annual three-day celebration of the last day of Ramadan and it is considered a public holiday. The government will announce the exact holiday dates.
Do non-Muslims have to fast?
Muslims don’t expect non-Muslims to fast but it is important to show respect.
Ramadan guidelines
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during the fasting hours.
- Do not engage in displays of affection, like hugging or kissing.
- Do not engage in any offensive behaviour.
- Do not dance or play music in public.
- Can listen to music quietly with headphones.
- Do not wear inappropriate dresses in public.
- Men should avoid wearing sleeveless tops.
- Women should cover their shoulders and knees.
- Do not swear offensive during Ramadan.
- Do not refuse a gift
- Should not refuse an invitation to join someone at Iftar.
The penalty for not following the above guidelines can vary, with community service normally being favoured.
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