Muslims worldwide prepare for sacred month of Ramadan

In a recent article, USA Today unveils that as the moon begins its celestial journey, Muslims around the world are gearing up for the arrival of Ramadan – a month of fasting, spiritual growth, and community solidarity. 

This sacred time marks the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad and serves as a powerful reminder of faith, charity, and self-discipline. With the start of Ramadan just around the corner, the world’s Muslim communities are preparing for a month of reflection, connection, and giving.

Ramadan takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar cycle. It is believed that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by the Angel Gabriel during this time. According to Tyler Mallari, a spokesperson for the Zakat Foundation, Ramadan is not only a time for personal spiritual growth but also an opportunity for Muslims to come together, participate in charitable activities, and engage in community events.

Ramadan is expected to begin around March 1 and end on March 29, although the exact dates will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon. The Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning the dates for Ramadan shift by approximately 11 days each year.

During Ramadan, Muslims who are healthy and of age fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual activity. Followers are also encouraged to avoid negative behaviors such as gossiping, lying, or arguing. There are exemptions for those who are ill, pregnant or nursing women, travelers, and young children. Some children may observe symbolic fasting for shorter periods.

The fast is often accompanied by deeper study of the Quran, with the goal of fostering greater awareness of God, or taqwa. Imam Ebad Rahman, from Columbia University, explains that fasting is intended to strengthen spiritual discipline and connection to the divine.

Throughout the month, mosques host Iftar dinners, communal meals where Muslims break their fast, which are open to the broader community. Many families also host Iftars at home, and mosques organize food drives and open houses. Mallari underscores the importance of charity during Ramadan, noting that Muslims strive to support local and global communities through acts of kindness and giving.

Each night during Ramadan, Imams recite one thirtieth of the Quran during special prayers, ensuring that the entire Quran is recited by the end of the month. The last ten nights of Ramadan are particularly sacred, with Laylat Al-Qadr, or the Night of Power, believed to fall during one of these nights. Muslims believe that acts of worship and good deeds on this night are especially valuable, and many spend the evening in reflection, prayer, and performing charitable acts.

The conclusion of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid Al-Fitr, a three-day holiday marking the end of fasting. This joyous occasion, expected to begin around March 30, is celebrated with special prayers, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts, bringing families and communities together in a spirit of unity and gratitude.

By Naila Huseynova