Imagine a month where nearly two billion people worldwide come together to reflect, fast and celebrate faith. It’s the month when the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was first revealed. To honor this divine month, Muslims fast during daylight hours. Ramadan is not just a religious obligation but a spiritual journey that unites Muslims across cultures and continents. But what exactly is Ramadan, and why is it so significant?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, considered the holiest month for Muslims. It is a time of fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, self-reflection and increased devotion to God. The month is observed as a commemoration of the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The History of Ramadan
Many people might not realize the fascinating history behind Ramadan. Exploring its origins helps us appreciate why it holds such deep spiritual and cultural significance for Muslims today.
Ramadan is the month in which the first revelation of the Quran was sent down, marking the beginning of divine guidance for humanity. Fasting during this month was introduced in the second year of Hijrah (624 CE) through Quranic verses, particularly Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183-185). In this passage, Allah says:
“O you who have believed, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous.”
Ramadan, a significant month in the Islamic calendar, has deep historical roots, as it was also part of the ancient Arabian calendar. The name Ramadan originates from the Arabic term “ar-ramad,” meaning scorching heat, symbolizing spiritual purification.
Muslims believe that in A.D. 610, the angel Gabriel appeared to Prophet Muhammad and revealed the Quran, Islam’s holy scripture. This divine event, known as Laylat Al-Qadr or the “Night of Power,” is believed to have taken place during Ramadan. To honor this sacred revelation, Muslims observe fasting (sawm) throughout the month.
The Quran, comprising 114 chapters, is regarded as the direct word of Allah (God). It is complemented by the hadith, which document the thoughts and actions of Prophet Muhammad as narrated by his companions. Together, these texts shape the foundation of Islamic teachings.
Fasting during Ramadan serves as a spiritual shield, guiding Muslims to exercise self-discipline and restraint. A well-known saying from Saheeh Al-Bukhari states:
“Fasting is a shield, so the one who fasts should refrain from obscene speech and ignorant behavior. If someone provokes or insults him, he should simply respond: ‘I am fasting. I am fasting.’”
This powerful message highlights the essence of Ramadan fasting—not just abstaining from food and drink but also practicing self-control, patience, and kindness.
Is Ramadan important to Muslims?
Yes, but what makes it significant to Muslims worldwide? Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a core practice for all Muslims. Every Muslim who has reached puberty and is in good health is required to fast each year during this holy month.
During Ramadan, Muslims focus on strengthening their connection with Allah (God) by reading and reflecting on the Qur’an, improving their character, helping those in need and seeking forgiveness for their mistakes.
A saying (Hadith) from Prophet Muhammad (SAW) highlights the special reward for fasting: Allah says, “Fasting is for Me, and I will reward it.” (Hadith | Muslim)
The importance of the last 10 days of Ramadan
The final days of Ramadan, often called the “last Ashra,” hold immense significance as they offer a golden opportunity for believers to seek forgiveness, redemption and salvation from the Hellfire. These blessed nights are made even more virtuous by the presence of Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree, about which the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) on Laylat al-Qadr with faith and hope for reward, all their past sins will be forgiven.” (Agreed upon)
When Aishah (RA) asked the Prophet (SAW) about the best dua to recite on this special night, he taught her:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ كَرِيمٌ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
“Allahumma innaka Afuwwun [Karimun] tuhibbul afwa fafu annee.”
(O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning and Generous; You love to pardon, so pardon me.) [Tirmidhi: 3513]
As the holy month draws to a close, it’s also the perfect time to increase our sadaqah (charity), following the noble example of the Prophet (SAW), whose generosity in Ramadan was described as being “faster than the wind.”
Read here to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
Who is Exempt from Fasting?
While fasting is obligatory for most Muslims, there are certain groups who are exempt, including:
For those who cannot fast due to valid reasons, alternative acts such as feeding the needy can be performed as compensation.
FAQ about Ramadan
Why does Ramadan start on a different day every year?
- Ramadan begins on varying dates annually because it follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is shorter than the Gregorian calendar. This causes the start of Ramadan to shift through the seasons.
Can non-Muslims participate in Ramadan?
- Absolutely! Non-Muslims are welcome to join iftar (the meal to break the fast) or try fasting for a day to experience it firsthand.
How can non-Muslims show support during Ramadan?
- Non-Muslims can show support by being mindful of fasting colleagues or friends, learning about Ramadan, and even joining in charitable activities such as donating food or volunteering at iftar events.
When should I state my intentions (niyyah) for the fast?
- The niyyah can be stated between dusk (maghrib) and dawn (subuh) before the next day’s fast.
Do I have to renew my intention to fast every night?
- Fasting requires an intention as it is an act of worship. For instance, fasting with the intention of dieting does not count as an Islamic fast. For Ramadan, a general intention to fast for the entire month is acceptable. However, if circumstances like illness or travel interrupt the fast, the intention should be renewed before resuming.
Does vomiting break my fast?
- Deliberate vomiting in large amounts, especially when it is forceful and unavoidable, invalidates the fast. However, unintentional vomiting does not affect the fast.
How soon must I make up for missed fasts?
- Missed fasts can be made up anytime before the next Ramadan. It is better to fulfill them promptly unless there is a valid excuse. Multiple missed fasts can be made up consecutively or separately, though doing them consecutively is preferred. If the fasts remain unfulfilled before the next Ramadan without a legitimate reason, the person is accountable for the delay and must still complete them.
