What is Ramadan: A Comprehensive Guide on the Holiest Month

Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, is one of the holiest times of worship for Muslims. 

Lasting 29 or 30 days, its duration depends on the moon's sighting. Ramadan occurs earlier each year because the Islamic calendar follows the moon as it is not aligned with the Gregorian calendar. The difference causes Ramadan to shift about 10 days earlier annually.

Let’s explore the why Ramadan is important for Muslims, and what should they do in this sacred month.

Importance of Ramadan in Islam

Ramadan is the month in which the Holy Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), as highlighted in the Ayah:

Ramadan is also the time when Muslims observe Sawm, or fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam. Fasting during Ramadan is mandatory for every Muslim who has reached puberty and is in good health.

In this sacred month, the rewards for good deeds are multiplied. Muslims are encouraged to deepen their connection with Allah, give Sadaqah, Zakat al Mal, Zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana), and seek forgiveness.

Ramadan holds deep significance for Muslims for several reasons. The main reason is Muslim fasting in this month, which is one of the five pillars of Islam. Every Muslim must observe this duty every year if they have reached puberty and are healthy.

During this holy month, Muslims focus on their relationship with Allah Subhan Ta’ala. They read the Qur'an and work on improving their character. They also help those in need and seek forgiveness for their sins.

Ramadan Before Islam

Ramadan has long been regarded as a significant and sacred month for Arabs, even before the arrival of Islam. During this time, there was no fighting, and people used to enjoy peace. The most religious people would go to temples, caves, or other quiet places to meditate. 

In Islamic tradition, Ramadan is the month when God gave scriptures to prophets like Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus. Abraham got his scriptures, Moses got the Torah, David got the Psalms, and Jesus got the Gospel during this month.

How is Ramadan Celebrated?

Every Muslim aspires to reach Ramadan, aiming to maximize good deeds during this month of forgiveness and spiritual renewal.

Here is the Dua every Muslim make to reach Ramadan safely:

Muslims happily embrace Ramadan as a time for cleansing, self-reflection, and getting closer to Allah.

In preparation for Ramadan, many families decorate their homes with lights and banners to create a festive and special atmosphere.

Friends and relatives extend their congratulations and greetings, such as ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ as they celebrate the arrival of the Holy month.

Throughout Ramadan, family and friends come together for Iftar parties to break their fast in unity. During Iftar, Allah (SWT) bestows special mercy and love upon those who have fasted and those who provide food for others.

Every Muslim aspires to reach Ramadan, aiming to maximize good deeds during this month of forgiveness and spiritual renewal.

What is Ramadan Fasting?

Fasting, known as sawm in Arabic, is important for every adult Muslim and is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Fasting offers Muslims the chance to gain control over their needs, desires, and distractions, allowing for deeper introspection and a greater focus on their life’s purpose—to worship Allah.

Fasting solely for the sake of Allah is a distinct act of devotion that comes with a unique reward.

Fasting cultivates patience and encourages submission to the will and pleasure of Allah.

Let’s explore what is the ruling on fasting during the month of Ramadan:

Purpose of Fasting

Here are the key aspects of fasting during Ramadan:

• Muslims fast throughout Ramadan to express gratitude to God for His final revelation
• Fasting involves abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours, which helps to reinforce religious commitment
• The primary goal of fasting is to restore the centrality of God in our lives
  Ramadan emphasizes increased awareness of actions that could harm our good deeds and inflate our ego
• During Ramadan Muslims practice devotion, kindness, patience, and forgiveness
• The intended result of fasting is to achieve inner purity
• From the practice of self-restraint, fasting during Ramadan helps Muslims develop discipline, patience, and a deeper spiritual connection

Time of Fasting in Ramadan

Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, avoiding food, drink, smoking, and sex to show their devotion to Allah (SWT).  This practice is a profound demonstration of their devotion, self-discipline, and obedience to Allah (SWT).

Iftar and Suhoor in Ramadan

During Ramadan, Muslims begin their fast with a pre-dawn meal called suhoor. This meal, eaten before sunrise, is crucial for providing the necessary energy and sustenance to carry through the day of fasting.

Suhoor helps Muslims maintain their strength and focus while they abstain from food and drink throughout the daylight hours.

The fast concludes with the evening meal known as iftar, which is enjoyed after sunset. This meal marks the end of the daily fast and is often a communal and festive occasion.

Iftar is when Muslims end their fast with family and friends. They usually start by eating dates and drinking water before enjoying a full dinner together.

Exemptions of Fasting

Children, the elderly, and those who are ill are exempt from fasting, as are pregnant or nursing women and those menstruating. However, pregnant and nursing women are expected to make up the fast once they can do so.

If their health prevents them from fasting, they can instead give Fidya, which involves providing a meal to a needy person for each missed day. If you are unable to fast due to valid reasons, such as health issues, Fidya and Kaffarah provide alternative ways to address missed fasts.

Fidyah

If someone is unable to fast during Ramadan and cannot make up the missed days later due to a long-term health condition, they should pay fidyah, which involves paying to feed someone else.

In Pakistan, the Fidya for each missed fast that can’t be made up later is Rs. 150. To find out the total amount you need to pay, just multiply Rs. 150 by the number of fasts you missed.

Kaffarah

If someone skips a fast without a valid reason, they must perform Kaffarah. This involves fasting for 60 consecutive days or providing 60 meals to the needy.

In regions with very long daylight hours, religious scholars recommend following the fasting times of the nearest Muslim-majority country.

Taraweeh in Ramadan

Taraweeh are extra prayers performed each night during Ramadan. These optional prayers are prayed in sets of two rakats, similar to the regular Salah (prayers). Many mosques globally offer Taraweeh prayer.

This prayer gives the community an opportunity to listen to and reflect on the recitation of the Qur’an throughout the blessed month.

Zakat and Sadaqah in Ramadan

During Ramadan, the emphasis on charity and helping others is heightened through the practices of Zakat and Sadaqah. 

Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a mandatory form of almsgiving where Muslims give a portion of their wealth to those in need. Sadaqah, on the other hand, is a voluntary charity, given out of compassion and generosity.

Both acts are especially encouraged during Ramadan, as the rewards for giving are believed to be multiplied during this blessed month.

Ending of Ramadan

The end of Ramadan includes intense worship for the last ten days and special night worship. On the first Shawwal, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the day for eating and enjoyment. 

Let's find out how Muslims spend their last ten days, Laylatul Qadar and Eid day.

Last Ten Nights

The last ten nights of Ramadan are particularly significant, as they include Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree. During this special time, Muslims focus on worship, prayer, and reflection to strengthen their spiritual connection.

During the time of Laylatul Qadr, Muslims strive to increase their acts of devotion, seeking forgiveness and blessings. They do this because the rewards for good deeds during these ten nights are considered to be immensely multiplied.

Note: The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, but it is widely believed to fall within these final ten nights, often on the odd-numbered nights.

Seclusion (i'tikaf)

Many Muslims dedicate the last ten days of Ramadan to seclusion (i'tikaf), focusing solely on worship and distancing themselves from worldly distractions. This period is for deep reflection, increased devotion, and seeking closeness to Allah through enhanced worship and religious study.

Laytul Qadar - The Holiest Night in Ramadan

Laylatul Qadr is often translated as "The Night of Decree" or "The Night of Power."

Some scholars interpret "qadr" as "decree," meaning that on this night. The fate of every person, including their sustenance, lifespan, and important matters, is determined and set for the coming year.

Others understand "qadr" as "power," emphasizing the significance of this night. This interpretation highlights the good deeds performed on Laylatul Qadr. They carry much more weight and reward than on any other night.

Note: The exact night of Laylatul Qadr is not specified.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised, 

"Seek Laylatul Qadr in the odd nights of the last 10 nights of Ramadan."

There is profound wisdom in not knowing the precise date. As Ibn Qudamah al-Maqdisi (d. 620 AH/1223 CE) noted, 

“Allah has hidden this night from the Muslim community (ummah) so they may increase their efforts in worship throughout the month, hoping to encounter it.”

Zakat al-Fitr and Ramadan

Zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana), is an important charitable act that can be given at the end of Ramadan or on the day of Eid before the Eid Salah. This obligatory almsgiving purifies the fast and cleanses the worship performed during Ramadan.

By giving Zakat al-Fitr, Muslims ensure that they fulfill their duty to help those in need. They contribute to a sense of community and unity as they celebrate Eid.

Eid al-Fitr: The Gift of Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr, known as "The Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a joyous celebration marking the end of Ramadan. After a month of fasting, prayer, and Eid al-Fitr is a gift to Muslims. It is an opportunity for Muslims to celebrate the completion of this sacred period. 

This is a time of communal prayers, festive meals, and giving thanks to Allah for His mercy and forgiveness. Muslims express their gratitude and enjoy the fruits of their spiritual efforts. They come together with family and friends to share in the joy and blessings of the occasion.

Benefits of Ramadan

Ramadan offers numerous benefits, including spiritual growth, self-discipline, and enhanced empathy. Fasting helps Muslims strengthen their faith, develop patience, and gain a deeper appreciation for their blessings. Additionally, the month fosters a sense of community and encourages acts of charity and kindness.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ramadan

Following are the Dos and Don’ts of Ramadan that a Muslim should Know:

Do’s of Ramadan

Here are some essential practices to follow during Ramadan:

• Recite the Quran regularly during Ramadan, reflecting on its verses.
• Offer Salat five times daily to seek Allah’s forgiveness and guidance.
• Observe fasting with sincerity, as it’s one of the five pillars of Islam.
• Engage in charity, donating to help the poor and needy during Ramadan and beyond.
• Practice self-discipline and self-control to embrace the spirit of Ramadan.
• Maintain celibacy to focus on prayer and strengthen your bond with Allah.
• Show respect, tolerance, and compassion, promoting unity within the Muslim community.
• Dress modestly, especially in the workplace, adhering to conservative attire.

Don’ts of Ramadan

Here are some essential practices Muslims should avoid during Ramadan:

• Fasting requires refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and forceful vomiting between dawn and dusk. Consuming anything before the Maghrib time can break the fast.
• Out of respect for those fasting or praying, do not play loud music during Ramadan. Use headphones to ensure it doesn’t disturb others.
• Ramadan teaches tolerance and patience, which are essential during fasting.
• Avoid losing your temper and try to remain calm and patient.
• Ramadan is a time to resist temptations and evil thoughts. 
• Avoid waking up full nights to watch unnecessary series. 
• Avoid sleeping too much when fasting. 

In conclusion, Ramadan is a time for deep spiritual reflection, where fasting, prayer, and acts of charity help Muslims connect with Allah and purify their hearts. Understanding “what is Ramadan” goes beyond just observing the fast. This is about spiritual growth and kindness, emphasized through practices like Sadaqah, Zakat, and Taraweeh.

Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Muslims celebrate the rewards of their devotion, having spent the month in worship and seeking Allah's mercy.  Ramadan's spiritual lessons and benefits continue to inspire Muslims as long as this sacred month has passed.

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