Nearly a quarter of the world's population, including hundreds of thousands of people in Australia, is preparing to observe Ramadan, a sacred period of fasting and worship.
But what exactly is Ramadan and how is it observed? Let's dive in and find out.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon. This means that the start and end dates of Ramadan change every year.
It's a special time that celebrates the revelation of the first verses of the Quran, Islam's holy book, to the Prophet Mohammed.
The Rules of Ramadan: A Guide for Non-Muslims
So, what are the rules of Ramadan? The most well-known aspect of Ramadan is fasting, also known as Sawm in Arabic.
This means that Muslims will abstain from eating and drinking, including water, from dawn until sunset. But it's not all about going without - there are also special meals and traditions that are an important part of the Ramadan experience.
- Suhoor: A pre-dawn meal that provides nourishment for the day ahead
- Iftar: A meal eaten after sunset to break the fast, traditionally started with dates and water
- Exceptions: Not all Muslims fast during Ramadan, including children, the elderly, and those who are sick or traveling
When Does Ramadan Start and End?
The start of Ramadan is marked by the sighting of the crescent of a new moon.
This year, Ramadan is expected to start on March 1 and will last for either 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon.
The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al-Fitr, a three-day festival that marks the end of the holy month.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is a time for celebration and giving. It typically starts with a communal prayer and sermon, followed by the payment of Zakat Al-Fitr, a donation for those in need. During Eid al-Fitr, Muslims often:
- Share traditional feasts with family and friends
- Exchange gifts with children, the elderly, and those in need
- Wear new clothes and decorate their homes
How to Wish Someone a Happy Ramadan
Wishing someone a happy Ramadan is a thoughtful way to show your support and respect for their faith. Here are some common greetings you can use:
- "Happy Ramadan"
- "Ramadan Kareem" (meaning "generous Ramadan")
- "Ramadan Mubarak" (meaning "blessed Ramadan")
By understanding and respecting the traditions and customs of Ramadan, we can build stronger relationships with our Muslim friends and colleagues and foster a more inclusive and compassionate community.
