Ramadan is one of the most important months in Islam and is observed by millions of Muslims around the world. During this holy month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, pray more, give charity, and focus on self-discipline and spiritual growth. It is a special time of reflection, gratitude, and strengthening faith.
In this guide, you’ll learn what Ramadan is, what the word means, what fasting involves, when it takes place, and how long it lasts. By the end, you will clearly understand the meaning and importance of Ramadan.
What Is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the most important months in Islam. It is a holy month observed by Muslims around the world through fasting, prayer, charity, and self-discipline.
During Ramadan, adult Muslims fast every day from dawn until sunset. They also pray more, read the Quran, give to people in need, and focus on improving their character. It is a month of worship, reflection, and spiritual growth.
Ramadan is also one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which shows how central it is in Muslim life. Muslims believe this month is a special time when good actions bring greater rewards, so many people try to stop bad habits and become better individuals.
What Does Ramadan Mean?
The word “Ramadan” comes from the Arabic word “ramida”, which means intense heat or dryness. In religious meaning, it represents burning away sins and negative habits.
In Islam, Ramadan is a month of spiritual purification and renewal. Muslims believe this is the month when the Quran was first revealed, which makes it especially meaningful. It is a time to strengthen faith, improve behavior, and build a closer relationship with God.
What Is Fasting in Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is called “Sawm” in Arabic. It means not eating, not drinking, and not smoking from dawn until sunset.
However, fasting is not only physical. It also includes controlling behavior and improving character. During fasting hours, Muslims avoid:
- Lying
- Gossiping
- Arguing
- Anger
- Bad language
When Is Ramadan?
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the moon. It begins when the new crescent moon is seen. Because the lunar year is shorter than the solar year, Ramadan moves about 10–11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. As a result, it can occur in different seasons, with longer fasting hours in summer and shorter hours in winter.
How Long Does Ramadan Last?
Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyful holiday that marks the end of fasting. On this day, people attend special prayers, visit family and friends, wear nice clothes, and enjoy traditional food.
What Are Suhoor and Iftar?
There are two main meals during Ramadan.
Suhoor is the meal eaten before dawn. Muslims wake up early to eat and drink before the fast begins, and this meal gives them energy for the day.
Iftar is the meal eaten at sunset to break the fast. Many Muslims break their fast with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad. After that, they eat with family, and in many communities, food is shared with neighbors and those in need.
Who Must Fast During Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is required for adult Muslims who are healthy and able to fast. However, some people are not required to fast, including:
- Young children
- Elderly people
- Sick individuals
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Travelers
If someone cannot fast for a valid reason, they may make up the missed days later. In some cases, they can give food or money to a person in need instead.
What Is Not Allowed During Fasting Hours?
From dawn until sunset, Muslims must avoid certain actions that break the fast. These include:
- Eating food
- Drinking any liquid
- Smoking
- Sexual activity
If someone eats or drinks by accident, the fast is still valid. However, if a person breaks the fast intentionally, it must be made up later.
What Is Laylat al-Qadr?
Laylat al-Qadr means “The Night of Power” or “The Night of Decree.” Muslims believe this is the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed. It occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan, although the exact date is unknown.
Muslims believe that worship on this night is better than one thousand months. For this reason, many people increase their prayers during the final days of Ramadan.
How Is Ramadan Observed Around the World?
Ramadan is observed by Muslims in many countries across the world. Although cultures and traditions are different, the main religious practices are the same: fasting, prayer, charity, and self-improvement.
In some places, streets are decorated with lights and lanterns. In others, large community meals are organized. In many Muslim-majority countries, working hours are reduced during Ramadan to help people manage fasting.
Ramadan and Charity
Charity is an important part of Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to give more during this month and help people in need.
Many donate money or provide food for families. There is also a special charity called Zakat al-Fitr, which is given before Eid al-Fitr so that everyone can celebrate the holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ramadan
What is the purpose of Ramadan?
Ramadan’s purpose is to strengthen faith, practice self-discipline, and grow spiritually. Muslims fast, pray more, and give charity to become better individuals and build a closer relationship with God.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Muslims fast during Ramadan because it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Fasting teaches patience, self-control, gratitude, and empathy for people who are less fortunate.
Can you drink water during Ramadan fasting?
No, Muslims do not drink water during fasting hours. From dawn until sunset, eating and drinking are not allowed. After sunset, they can eat and drink normally.
When does Ramadan start?
Ramadan begins when the new crescent moon is seen. The exact start date changes every year because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle.
How many hours do Muslims fast each day?
The number of fasting hours depends on the country and season. It can range from about 11 hours to more than 18 hours, depending on daylight length.
Who is exempt from fasting during Ramadan?
Children, elderly people, sick individuals, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and travelers are not required to fast. They may make up missed days later or provide food for someone in need.
