Alternative Spelling:
Ramadan / Ramazan / Ramadhan / Ramadhan / Ramzaan
What is Ramadan?
- Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, derived from the Arabic word ramad, meaning intense heat or dryness. The term reflects the spiritual "burning away" of sins through fasting and devotion. In Islamic tradition, Ramadan is a period of heightened religious observance, commemorating the month in which the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Theologically, Ramadan holds immense significance as it is considered a time when the gates of mercy and forgiveness are opened wide. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a central act of worship that is obligatory for all adult Muslims, except those exempted for valid reasons such as illness or travel.
- Historically, Ramadan has been observed since the earliest days of Islam, with scholars emphasizing its role in fostering self-discipline and empathy for the less fortunate. Over centuries, Islamic scholars have elaborated on the rules and spiritual dimensions of Ramadan, highlighting its unique place in Islamic jurisprudence and communal life.
- On a spiritual level, Ramadan is seen as a time for inner purification, increased prayer, and reflection. Muslims strive to strengthen their relationship with Allah through acts of worship, reading the Qur’an, and performing good deeds, believing that the rewards for righteous actions are multiplied during this sacred month.
- In contemporary practice, Ramadan continues to be a unifying force for Muslims worldwide. It shapes daily routines, encourages communal gatherings for iftar (breaking the fast), and inspires charitable activities. Observing Ramadan serves as a reminder of the importance of self-restraint, gratitude, and compassion in modern Islamic life.
Examples of Ramadan
- Greeting: "Many Muslims greet each other with 'Ramadan Mubarak' at the start of Ramadan."
- Fasting: "During Ramadan, adults abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset."
- Night Prayers: "Special nightly prayers called Taraweeh are performed in mosques throughout Ramadan."
- Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): "Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of compassion and self-restraint during Ramadan."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ PBUH said: *"Whoever fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah's rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven."
Sahih Bukhari 38
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ PBUH said: "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained."
Sahih Bukhari 1899
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ PBUH said: "Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan with faith while seeking its reward from Allah, will have his past sins forgiven."
Sahih Muslim 760
FAQs for Ramadan
What does Ramadan mean in English?
What does Ramadan mean in English? Ramadan means the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims as a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Muslims fast during Ramadan to fulfill one of the Five Pillars of Islam, following the example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and to increase their spiritual awareness, self-discipline, and empathy for those in need.
How long does Ramadan last?
Ramadan lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon, marking the beginning and end of the month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
What happens at the end of Ramadan?
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a festival of breaking the fast, which includes communal prayers, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and gatherings with family and friends to mark the conclusion of the holy month.
