Ramadan: Basic questions answered

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the holiest month for Muslims all around the world.  The significance of this month is believed to be the revelation of the Quran, the holy book of Muslims, to Prophet Muhammed by Allah.

Currently, there are approximately 1.6 billion Muslims preparing for Ramadan.

During the month of Ramadan, common questions may arise. Here are a few those questions answered.

When does Ramadan begin?

Ramadan is determined by the sighting of a new moon since it goes by the Islamic lunar calendar, and because of this, it comes 11 days earlier each year, which means it can begin during any season.

 

Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam along with, Shahada – the declaration of faith, Salah – prayer, Zakat – giving charity and Hajj – pilgrimage to Mecca, which makes it mandatory.

However, the purpose of the fast is to bring faithful closeness to Allah, purify the mind and soul, practice self-restraint, think of the unfortunate and detach from worldly pleasures, along with focusing on prayer.

How do Muslims fast?

Muslims have to abstain from food and beverage during the fast, amongst smoking, chewing gum and sexual contact during daylight hours. They also have to be cautious of swearing or speaking ill of others, which will result in the fast being inadmissible.

Daylight hours?

Yes, Muslims wake up before dawn and have a meal called Suhoor.

And break their fast at dusk, calling it Iftar.

How long does Ramadan last?

The fast lasts for the duration of the month, between 29 and 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon.

How many hours a day do Muslims fast for?

The number of hours the fast will last throughout the day will vary for Muslims in different latitudes. This year the fast will be the longest in Denmark and shortest in Argentina.

Does everyone have to fast?

No, there are exceptions. The elderly, disabled, ill, children who haven’t hit puberty yet, pregnant, lactating or menstruating women and travellers are exempt. However, travellers and menstruating women do have to make up their fasts on later dates or can compensate by means of monetary funds.

What if you accidently eat or drink something?

Accidental eating or drinking will not spoil or break your fast, it’s actually common for people cooking to accidently taste the food they’re preparing.

What do Muslims eat when they break their fast?

Since Muslims come from different ethnic groups and cultures, their meals vary, but it’s mandatory for them to eat halal – permissible according to Muslim law. However, it’s tradition to break the fast with dates.

Are there significant days during the month of Ramadan to watch for?

Yes, Laylat al Qadr, or the “Night of Power,” which is commemorated as the night Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation of the Quran, it’s celebrated on an odd numbered day in the last 10 days of the month of Ramadan. Muslims continue to pray and repent throughout the month.

What are Muslims encouraged to do during the month of Ramadan?

Read the Quran, pray, give to charity and perform charitable acts.

Do you do anything special at the end of Ramadan?

Yes, the ending of Ramadan brings forth Eid al Fitr, which translates to the celebration of the breaking of the fast. It starts with a celebration prayer at a mosque followed by visiting friends and family along with indulging delicious foods.

Is there a special greeting for Ramadan?

At the start of the month of Ramadan, it’s common to say “Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak.”

And at the completion of the month, Muslims greet each other by saying  “Eid Mubarak.”