As the crescent moon is sighted across the world, Muslims usher in Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the holiest periods in the faith. For over a billion Muslims globally, Ramadan marks a time of fasting, prayer, charity, and deep spiritual reflection.

The Start of Ramadan

Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon, a tradition that has been observed for centuries. Because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, the start of Ramadan shifts about 10 to 11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar. The exact beginning may vary by region, depending on moon sightings or official religious announcements.

From the first dawn of Ramadan, adult Muslims who are physically able begin a daily fast known as sawm. This fast lasts from sunrise to sunset and includes abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations during daylight hours.

The Significance of Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the core acts of worship that define the faith. Beyond physical restraint, the fast is meant to cultivate:

• Self-discipline
  
  

• Spiritual awareness
  
  

• Empathy for the less fortunate
  
  

• Gratitude and humility
  
  

Muslims are also encouraged to avoid negative behavior such as gossip, anger, and dishonesty, striving instead for kindness, patience, and generosity.

A Time of Prayer and Reflection

Ramadan is closely associated with the revelation of the Qur’an, which Muslims believe was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during this month. As a result, many devote extra time to reading and reciting the holy text.

Special nightly prayers called Taraweeh are held in mosques, where long portions of the Qur’an are recited. For many believers, Ramadan becomes a period of spiritual reset—an opportunity to reconnect with faith, family, and community.

Charity and Community

Charitable giving is emphasized throughout the month. Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), helping those in need.

Each day’s fast is broken at sunset with a meal known as Iftar, often beginning with dates and water, following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad. Iftar is frequently shared with family, friends, and neighbors, strengthening social bonds.

The Night of Power

One of the most sacred moments of Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), believed to fall within the last ten nights of the month. Muslims believe this is the night when the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed, and that prayers offered on this night carry immense spiritual reward.

The End of Ramadan

Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday marked by communal prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness after a month of devotion.

A Universal Message

While Ramadan is a religious observance, its themes—self-control, compassion, charity, and reflection—carry a universal message. For many, the month serves as a reminder to slow down, care for others, and focus on what truly matters.

As the crescent moon signals the start of this sacred period, communities across the globe enter a month defined not just by fasting, but by faith, unity, and renewal.

Sources: BBC Feeds, Encyclopedia, Britannica