Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar is a very interesting time of year and observed by Muslims worldwide. Ramadan is also a month of fasting; all adults, with some exceptions like pregnancy and the elderly, are required to fast from dawn to sunset. During the time of fasting, Muslims must refrain from food or drink, yes even water, and all that is deemed sinful in Islam such as cursing. Fasting is supposed to encourage personal improvement, discipline, and to cleanse the soul of worldly and harmful impurities.
Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days, starting with one sighting of the crescent moon to the next, and this year it begins Tuesday, February 17th and will last until Thursday, March 19th. The history of Ramadan holds much value and meaning: it believed to be the time where all holy scriptures, including the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to humanity. Before dawn, the pre-fast meal, called suhur, concludes shortly before the first prayer of the day, fajr. At sunset, the fast is broken with a meal called the iftar, and the meal is ended with Maghrib the 4 out of the 5 required prayers during the day.
Fun Facts:
Surprisingly, during Ramadan, television viewership skyrockets especially during important hours of the day like late into the night after iftar. Broadcasters in Arab countries tend to show drama Television shows during these times. Advertisement during prime Ramadan hours can be compared to the Super Bowl when speaking in terms of influence and importance.
For Muslims in space to go through with Ramadan, they fast for the hours according to the last place they left earth. Muslims in polar regions face a similar problem. Nights can last for up to 22 hours in some places so they usually fast either according to the nearest city that experiences day and night or according to the time in mecca.
Ramadan is an extremely interesting holiday and the traditions behind the popularly celebrated month are fascinating and intriguing. It’s a shame that not many people know much about Ramadan and I hope this article helped you learn something about it.
