Cover Ramadan is one of the holiest times of the year for the Muslim community all around the world (Photo: Getty Images)
Ramadan is one of the holiest times of the year for the Muslim community all around the world (Photo: Getty Images)
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From why Muslims fast to Ramadan activities, here are some things to know about this holy month
As one of the holiest times of the year for the Muslim community all around the world, Ramadan marks a period of sacrifice and prayer.
Falling on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, this month sees able-bodied Muslims fasting daily from sunrise to sunset. An important spiritual practice for Muslims, this allows them to demonstrate their devotion, connecting themselves spiritually with Allah during this holy month. On top of fasting, Muslims also take this opportunity to self-reflect and purify their soul through practising charitable deeds and acts of compassion.
This year, Ramadan begins on March 12 in Singapore. Before the sacred month begins, why not learn more about this major festival? That said, here’s everything you need to know about this holy month.
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1. What does Ramadan mean?
Above Eid-al-Fitr moon in Malegaon, Maharashtra, India (Photo: Getty Images)
Eid-al-Fitr moon in Malegaon, Maharashtra, India (Photo: Getty Images)
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Ramadan comes from the Arabic word, ramaḍān, which translates to mean “the hot month”. The practice is embraced by Muslims during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar as they anticipate the birth of the “Ramadan moon”. Also known as moonsighting, this is a practice of spotting the new moon on the first night of the Islamic month.
2. How is the start of Ramadan determined?
Above The new moon marks the start of Ramadan (Photo: Getty Images)
The new moon marks the start of Ramadan (Photo: Getty Images)
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The holy month fluctuates each year as the beginning and end of Ramadan are determined by moon sighting. Ramadan starts the day after the new crescent moon is spotted—this new moon refers to the thin crescent that appears following the moon’s conjunction with the sun. It also marks the start of a new lunar cycle.
Various techniques and methods are used to spot the new moon. As a result, Ramadan dates may vary in different countries.
3. Why do Muslims fast?
Above The month of Ramadan fulfils one of the five pillars of Islam (Photo: Getty Images)
The month of Ramadan fulfils one of the five pillars of Islam (Photo: Getty Images)
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Fasting during the month of Ramadan fulfils one of the five pillars of Islam. Along with fasting, the other four pillars include prayer, giving alms (zakat), performing Hajj (Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca), and shahada (profession of faith).
More than just fulfilling a religious obligation, the Ramadan period is a time of self-reflection and coming together.
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4. When was fasting introduced?
Above The practice of Ramadan has been observed by Muslims all across the globe for over 14 centuries (Photo: Getty Images)
The practice of Ramadan has been observed by Muslims all across the globe for over 14 centuries (Photo: Getty Images)
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Observed and celebrated for over 14 centuries, the practice of Ramadan was revealed to prophet Mohammed during the second year of the Hijri calendar. Since its introduction, this practice has been mandatory for all able-bodied Muslims.
5. How do Muslims start and break their fast?
Above During the fasting month, Muslims begin their day with a pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and break their fast after sunset (iftar). (Photo: Getty Images)
During the fasting month, Muslims begin their day with a pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and break their fast after sunset (iftar). (Photo: Getty Images)
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Muslims fast for one month from dawn until dusk. Each fast typically begins with a nutritious pre-dawn meal (suhoor), a communal affair where families gather for heart meal.
After the sun sets, Muslims break their fast with another meal (iftar). This meal usually starts with dates and prayer before eating.
Following iftar comes nightly congregational prayers. Known as tarawih, these prayers are only offered during this holy month and involve reading the Qu’ran as well as performing rak’ahs. The latter is a single iteration of movements performed as part of salah prayers.
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6. What are some other Ramadan activities?
Above Many Muslims also attempt to read the whole of the Qur'an during this time. (Photo: Getty Images)
Many Muslims also attempt to read the whole of the Qur'an during this time. (Photo: Getty Images)
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Apart from abstaining from food and drinks, many Muslims also restrain from earthly pleasures, including smoking, lust and anger.
During this time, many Muslims also attempt to read the whole of the Qur’an and attend special services in the mosques.
7. What happens after Ramadan?
Above Eid al-Fitr is celebrated after the fasting month (Photo: Getty Images)
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated after the fasting month (Photo: Getty Images)
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Muslims mark the end of the fasting month with a celebration known as Eid al-Fitr. Also known as Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore, this joyous time sees families hold large gatherings as they gain forgiveness, enjoy food and catch up with loved ones. The day starts with prayers and is followed by family visits where green packets are exchanged.
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Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
