Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. It’s revered as the time when the Holy Qur’an was revealed, serving as a guiding light and a source of salvation for both men and women.
Muslims are expected to wait on orders of Islamic authorities, who rely heavily on sighting of the crescent moon or countdown of the 8th Islamic month, to determine its start. In this month, Muslims often gather in mosques for prayers and devote extra time to religious reflection and studying the Quran – their sacred scripture.
Here are 10 things you should know about Ramadan:
1. No Fixed Date
Ramadan commences on varying dates each year in the Gregorian Calendar due to the Islamic calendar’s adherence to lunar cycles. The month begins upon the sighting of the new moon, leading to uncertainty until the day before Ramadan starts, though an estimated date is forecasted beforehand. Similarly, Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, follows the same process, with Muslims worldwide celebrating upon the moon’s confirmation.
2. Beyond Abstaining from Food and Drinks
During the period between Fajr (after morning prayer) and sunset, fasting extends beyond abstaining from food and drink. It entails refraining from sinful behaviors like cursing, lying, harboring bad intentions, and engaging in sexual relations, among other actions. These behaviors have the potential to invalidate a fast.
3. Dates Are More Popular
Dates are typically the first food consumed at iftar, serving as a popular way to break the fast. It’s believed that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also broke his fast with dates. Dates are rich in natural sugars, high in fiber, promote digestion, and boast numerous vitamins and nutrients, offering a wide range of health benefits.
4. Increase in Generosity
Ramadan is a significant time for generosity and philanthropy. The rewards for acts of charity and kindness during this month are immense. It’s a period marked by humility and modesty, prompting us to reflect on the needs of those less fortunate. Many individuals participate in Ramadan donations, either through regular contributions, involvement in campaigns, or volunteering efforts to support meaningful religious causes.
5. Some Are Exempted from Fasting
Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory, requiring abstention from eating, drinking, and other pleasures from sunrise to sunset. However, there are exceptions outlined in the Quran. Those who are unwell, elderly, traveling, pregnant, breastfeeding, or menstruating, as well as children under puberty, are exempt from fasting if it adversely affects their health. In such cases, missed fasts can be made up for, later.
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6. Potential Weight Gain
Despite daily fasting, Ramadan is known for potential weight gain. Binge eating at night coupled with decreased activity levels can slow metabolic cycles, promoting fat storage. Iftar meals, typically high in carbohydrates, contribute to this. To maintain a healthy weight, Muslims are encouraged to stay hydrated, consume fruits, vegetables, and protein, and make an effort to eat suhoor each morning.
7. Sahur Is Important
Muslims have a special meal before and after each day of fasting. Sahur, as advised by the Prophet, is an essential part of the fasting – consumed before dawn, sustains individuals throughout the fast until sunset. Opting for nutritious foods during Sahur can significantly impact energy levels throughout the day. During Ramadan, maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial to provide the body with essential nutrients to keep up with modern-day demands.
8. No Universal Age for Readiness
Children are exempted from fasting until they reach puberty, typically around the ages of 13 or 14, which varies for each child. However, it’s encouraged for them to learn about fasting. Some children begin practicing with half-day or even shorter fasts as they familiarize themselves with Ramadan. There’s no universal age for readiness, as some children may be prepared to fast as early as 10 years old.
9. Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid ul-Fitr signifies the end of Ramadan, commemorating the conclusion of fasting. Like the start of Ramadan, this is not usually a fixed date, it depends on sighting of the new moon. This festive occasion brings friends and families together for celebratory meals and the exchange of gifts, with special considerations for those in need.
10. Lower Your Gaze
Though indecent dressing usually fades away with the start of Ramadan, it’s not the case everywhere. Generally, Muslims are expected to lower their gaze. It is against the principles of Ramadan to watch nudity or something that could damage the fast.
Simply saying “Happy Ramadan” is a bit basic. To truly embrace the spirit of Ramadan when greeting others, consider using phrases like “Ramadan Kareem!” (Wishing you a generous Ramadan!) or “Ramadan Mubarak!” (Happy Ramadan!). It’s important to note that the greeting changes to “Eid Mubarak!” on the last day of Ramadan.
