Monday marked the commencement of Ramadan, a holy month for Muslims around the world. During this time many people greet one another with the phrase, “Ramadan Mubarak” which translates to “Happy Ramadan.”
During the month of Ramadan many Muslims fast. This means that they abstain from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset. People who are not required to fast include the elderly, the ill, and people who are traveling. Muslims also donate to charity, pray and study their holy book, the Quran, more. These actions are an effort to practice the religion of Islam better, as it is rooted around the five pillars of Islam. These five pillars include believing in one God, Allah; praying five times a day; fasting during Ramadan; Zakat or giving charity; and if possible going on a pilgrimage called Hajj.
Before starting their fast, most Muslims have a meal called Suhoor. This meal takes place before dawn as Muslims who are fasting are not permitted to eat after this time.
Muslims break their fast at sunset, with a meal referred to as Iftar. While the food that is served at an Iftar differs from culture to culture, all people start with dates. This practice of breaking their fast with a date lines up with what the Muslim Prophet Mohammad did.
Islam is centered around the lunar calendar which has 12 months. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Each time the new moon is seen a new Islamic month begins. Since the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar calendar, the number of days in a month fluctuates. This also causes Ramadan and other Islamic months to begin on a different day of the Gregorian calendar each year.
Depending on the season, fasts can get longer or shorter as Ramadan progresses. In the winter they get shorter as daylight hours decrease, and in the summer they get longer as daylight hours increase. Due to the timing of Ramadan in relation to seasons this year, fasts will get longer as time progresses.
At the end of Ramadan, Muslim people have a religious holiday called Eid Al Fitr. This holiday is also determined by the lunar calendar and takes place when the new moon is spotted at the end of Ramadan. This holiday marks the end of fasting and Ramadan. This holiday is celebrated with a special prayer and spending time with friends and family. People also wear new clothing and children receive gifts. People also visit the graves of their deceased family and friends.
Ramadan brings people from a variety of backgrounds together, and provides an opportunity for Muslims to strengthen their relationship with God. It’s a joyous month filled with unique traditions, and one that many Muslims look forward to.
Happy Ramadan North Stars!
