Difference between revisions of "Ramadan" - New World Encyclopedia

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{{Infobox Holiday
 
{{Infobox Holiday
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|official_name =
 
|official_name =
 
|observedby = [[Muslim]]s
 
|observedby = [[Muslim]]s
|begins = At the last night of [[Sha'ban|the month of Sha'ban]]<ref name=Dummies>Malcolm Clark, ''Islam For Dummies'' (John Wiley & Sons, 2003, ISBN 978-0764555039).</ref>
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|begins = At the last night of [[Sha'ban|the month of Sha'ban]]<ref name=Dummies>Malcolm Clark, ''Islam For Dummies'' (John Wiley & Sons, 2019, ISBN 978-1119642978).</ref>
 
|ends = At the last night of [[Ramadan (calendar month)|the month of Ramadan]]<ref name=Dummies/>
 
|ends = At the last night of [[Ramadan (calendar month)|the month of Ramadan]]<ref name=Dummies/>
|date = Variable (follows the [[Islamic calendar|Islamic lunar calendar]])<ref name="AlJazeera">[https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/04/ramadan-fasting-start-date-170427062743037.html When does Ramadan begin in 2020?] ''Al Jazeera'', April 22, 2020. Retrieved April 30, 2020.</ref>
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|date = Variable (follows the [[Islamic calendar|Islamic lunar calendar]])<ref name="Calendar">[https://www.calendardate.com/ramadan_2022.htm Ramadan 2022] ''Calendar Date''. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
 
|celebrations = Community [[iftar]]s and Community prayers
 
|celebrations = Community [[iftar]]s and Community prayers
 
|observances =<br>
 
|observances =<br>
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|frequency=every year (lunar calendar)
 
|frequency=every year (lunar calendar)
 
}}
 
}}
'''Ramadan''' (also spelled ''Ramzan'', ''Ramadhan'', or ''Ramathan'') is the [[Ramadan (calendar month)|ninth month]] of the [[Islamic calendar]], observed by [[Muslim]]s worldwide as a month of [[fasting]] (''[[Fasting in Islam|sawm]]''), prayer, reflection and community. A commemoration of [[Muhammad's first revelation]], the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the [[Five Pillars of Islam]] and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the [[Hilal (crescent moon)|crescent moon]] to the next.
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'''Ramadan''' (also spelled ''Ramzan'', ''Ramadhan'', or ''Ramathan'') is the [[Ramadan (calendar month)|ninth month]] of the [[Islamic calendar]], observed by [[Muslim]]s worldwide as a month of [[fasting]] (''[[Fasting in Islam|sawm]]''), prayer, reflection, and community. A commemoration of [[Muhammad's first revelation]], the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the [[Five Pillars of Islam]] and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the [[Hilal (crescent moon)|crescent moon]] to the next. Fasting from sunrise to sunset is ''[[fard]]'' (obligatory) for all adult Muslims in good health. Before the daily fast each day a predawn meal, referred to as ''[[Suhoor]]'' is eaten, and the fast is broken with a nightly feast called ''[[Iftar]]''.
 
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{{toc}}
Fasting from sunrise to sunset is ''[[fard]]'' (obligatory) for all adult Muslims in good health. Before the daily fast each day a predawn meal, referred to as ''[[suhur]]'' is eaten, and the fast is broken with a nightly feast called ''[[iftar]]''.
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The spiritual rewards (''[[thawab]]'') of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also [[tobacco product]]s, [[sexual relations]], and [[Islamic views on sin|sinful behavior]], devoting themselves instead to ''[[salat]]'' ([[prayer]]) and recitation of the [[Quran]]. Ramadan also brings together the Muslim community, every evening for the ''iftar'' meal, and especially at the conclusion of the month with the celebration of ''Eid al-Fitr''.
 
 
The spiritual rewards (''[[thawab]]'') of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also [[tobacco product]]s, [[sexual relations]], and [[Islamic views on sin|sinful behavior]], devoting themselves instead to ''[[salat]]'' ([[prayer]]) and recitation of the [[Quran]].
 
  
 
==Etymology==
 
==Etymology==
The word ''Ramadan'' originally "the hot month," derives from the Arabic root ''R-M-Ḍ'' (ramida) ({{rtl-lang|ar|ر-م-ض|link=no}}) "be burnt, scorched." <ref>[https://www.etymonline.com/word/ramadan Ramadan] ''Etymology Online''. Retrieved April 30, 2020. </ref> According to numerous hadiths, Ramadan is one of the names of God in Islam (the 99 Names of Allah, Beautiful Names of Allah) and as such it is prohibited to say only "Ramadan" in reference to the calendar month, and that it is necessary to say the "month of Ramadan."
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The word ''Ramadan'' originally "the hot month," derives from the Arabic root ''R-M-Ḍ'' (ramida) ({{rtl-lang|ar|ر-م-ض|link=no}}) "be burnt, scorched." <ref>[https://www.etymonline.com/word/ramadan Ramadan] ''Etymology Online''. Retrieved May 3, 2022. </ref> According to numerous hadiths, Ramadan is one of the names of God in Islam (the 99 Names of Allah, Beautiful Names of Allah) and as such it is prohibited to say only "Ramadan" in reference to the calendar month, and that it is necessary to say the "month of Ramadan."
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Ramadan is observed by [[Muslim]]s worldwide as a commemoration of [[Muhammad's first revelation]]. The annual observance of ''sawm'' ([[fasting]] during Ramadan) is regarded as one of the [[Five Pillars of Islam]] and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the [[Hilal (crescent moon)|crescent moon]] to the next.<ref>AbdAllah-Muhammad Bukhari-Ibn-Ismail, [http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-124.html Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 124] ''Hadith Collection''. Retrieved April 30, 2020.</ref><ref>Abul-Hussain Muslim-Ibn-Habaj, [http://hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2378.html Sahih Muslim&nbsp;– Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2378] ''Hadith Collection''. Retrieved April 30, 2020.</ref>
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Ramadan is observed by [[Muslim]]s worldwide as a commemoration of [[Muhammad's first revelation]]. The annual observance of ''sawm'' ([[fasting]] during Ramadan) is regarded as one of the [[Five Pillars of Islam]] and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the [[Hilal (crescent moon)|crescent moon]] to the next.<ref name=Bukhari>AbdAllah-Muhammad Bukhari-Ibn-Ismail, [http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-124.html Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 124] ''Hadith Collection''. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref><ref>Abul-Hussain Muslim-Ibn-Habaj, [http://hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2378.html Sahih Muslim&nbsp;– Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2378] ''Hadith Collection''. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
[[File:002185 Al-Baqarah UsmaniScript.png|thumb|300px|[[Al-Baqara]] ([[Qu'ran]], Chapter 2), Verse 185 in Arabic.]]
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[[File:002185 Al-Baqarah UsmaniScript.png|thumb|400px|[[Al-Baqara]] ([[Qu'ran]], Chapter 2), Verse 185 in Arabic.]]
 
<blockquote>The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran; a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other days. Allah desires for you ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that perhaps you may be thankful.{{cite quran|2|185}}</blockquote>
 
<blockquote>The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran; a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other days. Allah desires for you ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that perhaps you may be thankful.{{cite quran|2|185}}</blockquote>
  
Muslims hold that all [[scripture]] was [[Revelation|revealed]] during Ramadan, the [[scrolls of Abraham]], [[Torah in Islam|Torah]], [[Zabur|Psalms]], [[Gospel in Islam|Gospel]], and [[Quran]] having been handed down on the first, sixth, twelfth, thirteenth (in some sources, eighteenth) and twenty-fourth Ramadans, respectively.<ref name=Rafig> Rafig Y. Aliyev, ''Loud Thoughts on Religion'' (Trafford Publishing, 2013, ISBN 978-1490705217).</ref> Muhammed is said to have received his first quranic revelation on ''[[Laylat al-Qadr]]'', one of five odd-numbered nights that fall during the last ten days of Ramadan.<ref>{{Cite book|title = The Magnificence of Quran|url = https://books.google.com/?id=AKmmBQAAQBAJ&pg=PT29&dq=ramadan+quran+revealed#v=onepage&q=ramadan%2520quran%2520revealed&f=false|publisher = Darussalam Publishers|date = 2006|first = Mahmood Bin Ahmad Bin Saaleh|last = Ad-Dausaree}}</ref>
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Muslims hold that all [[scripture]] was [[Revelation|revealed]] during Ramadan, the [[scrolls of Abraham]], [[Torah in Islam|Torah]], [[Zabur|Psalms]], [[Gospel in Islam|Gospel]], and [[Quran]] having been handed down on the first, sixth, twelfth, thirteenth (in some sources, eighteenth) and twenty-fourth Ramadans, respectively.<ref name=Rafig> Rafig Y. Aliyev, ''Loud Thoughts on Religion'' (Trafford Publishing, 2013, ISBN 978-1490705217).</ref> [[Muhammad]] is said to have received his first quranic revelation on ''[[Laylat al-Qadr]]'', one of five odd-numbered nights that fall during the last ten days of Ramadan.<ref> Mahmood Bin Ahmad Ad-Dausaree, ''The Magnificence of Quran'' (Darussalam Publishers, 2015, ISBN 978-9960980119). </ref>
 
 
Although Muslims were first commanded to fast in the second year of ''[[Hijri year|Hijra]]'' (624 C.E.),<ref name=Rafig/> they believe that the practice of fasting is not in fact an innovation of [[monotheism]]<ref>Quran Chapter 2, Revelation 183</ref> but rather has always been necessary for believers to attain ''[[taqwa]]'' (the [[fear of God]]).<ref>{{Cite book|title = Explanation of the Three Fundamental Principles of Islam (Salafi): Sharh Usool ath-Thalatha of Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahaab|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=EbamAQAAQBAJ&pg=PT63#v=onepage&q&f=false|publisher = Salafi Books|first = Shaikh Saalih|last = al-Uthaymeen}}</ref>{{Cite quran|2|183}} They point to the fact that the [[Religion in pre-Islamic Arabia|pre-Islamic pagans]] of Mecca fasted on the tenth day of [[Muharram]] to [[propitiation|expiate sin]] and avoid [[drought]].<ref>{{Cite book|title = Loud Thoughts on Religion: A Version of the System Study of Religion. Useful Lessons for Everybody|url = https://books.google.com/books?id=t6CvZJJt1PIC|publisher = Trafford Publishing|year=2013|isbn = 978-1490705217|first = Rafig Y.|last = Aliyev|page = 128}}{{self-published source|date=January 2018}}</ref>{{Self-published inline|certain=yes|date=January 2018}} [[Philip Jenkins]] argues that the observance of Ramadan fasting grew out of "the strict [[Lenten]] discipline of the [[Syriac Christianity|Syrian Churches]]," a postulation corroborated by other scholars, including theologian [[Paul-Gordon Chandler]],<ref>Jenkins, Philip (2006). ''The New Faces of Christianity: Believing the Bible in the Global South''. p. 182. Oxford University Press. Kindle Edition.</ref><ref name="Chandler2008">{{cite book|last=Chandler|first=Paul-Gordon|title=Pilgrims of Christ on the Muslim Road: Exploring a New Path Between Two Faiths|date=2008|publisher=Cowley Publications|language=English |isbn=978-0742566033|page=88}}</ref> but disputed by some Muslim academics.<ref>Muhammad Mustafa al-Azami, "The History of The Quranic Text: From Revelation to Compilation: A Comparative Study with the Old and New Testaments", 2nd Edition (2008), Azami Publishing House</ref>
 
  
 
== Important dates ==
 
== Important dates ==
The first and last dates of Ramadan are determined by the lunar [[Islamic calendar]].<ref name="AlJazeera"/>
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The first and last dates of Ramadan are determined by the lunar [[Islamic calendar]].<ref name="Calendar"/>
  
 
=== Beginning ===
 
=== Beginning ===
[[File:Ramadan100years1938-2037.png|thumb|Ramadan beginning dates between Gregorian years 1938 and 2038.]]
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[[File:Ramadan100years1938-2037.png|thumb|400px|Ramadan beginning dates between Gregorian years 1938 and 2038.]]
Because ''[[Hilal (crescent moon)|Hilāl]]'', the [[Lunar phase|crescent moon]], typically occurs approximately one day after the [[new moon]], Muslims can usually estimate the beginning of Ramadan;<ref>[http://www.hilalsighting.org/papers/salman.pdf Hilal Sighting & Islamic Dates: Issues and Solution Insha'Allaah] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090206015307/http://www.hilalsighting.org/papers/salman.pdf |date=6 February 2009 }}. Hilal Sighting Committee of North America ([http://www.hilalsighting.org/ website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090831043652/http://www.hilalsighting.org/ |date=31 August 2009 }}). Retrieved 19 August 2009.</ref> however, many{{who|date=July 2019}} prefer to confirm the opening of Ramadan by direct visual observation of the crescent.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2466-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-124.html |title= Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 124 |first= AbdAllah-Muhammad |last= Bukhari-Ibn-Ismail |work= hadithcollection.com |access-date= 25 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120613040509/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2466-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-124.html |archive-date= 13 June 2012 |url-status= dead |df= dmy-all }}</ref>
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Because ''[[Hilal (crescent moon)|Hilāl]]'', the [[Lunar phase|crescent moon]], typically occurs approximately one day after the [[new moon]], the beginning of Ramadan can be estimated with some accuracy (see chart). The opening of Ramadan can be confirmed by direct visual observation of the crescent.<ref name=Bukhari/>
  
 
=== Night of Power ===
 
=== Night of Power ===
 
{{Main|Laylat al-Qadr}}
 
{{Main|Laylat al-Qadr}}
''[[Laylat al-Qadr]]'' is considered the holiest night of the year.<ref>{{Cite book | last = Robinson | first = Neal | title = Islam: A Concise Introduction | publisher = Georgetown University Press | year = 1999 | location = Washington | doi =  | id =  | isbn = 978-0-87840-224-3 | url-access = registration | url = https://archive.org/details/islam00neal }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2465-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-125.html |title= Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 125 |first= AbdAllah-Muhammad |last= Ibn-Ismail-Bukhari |work= hadithcollection.com |access-date= 28 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170845/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2465-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-125.html |archive-date= 15 January 2013 |url-status= dead |df= dmy-all }}</ref> It is generally believed to have occurred on an odd-numbered night during the last ten days of Ramadan; the [[Dawoodi Bohra]] believe that ''Laylat al-Qadr'' was the twenty-third night of Ramadan.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/65-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2032.%20Praying%20at%20Night%20In%20Ramadhan%20(Taraweeh)/2479-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-032-hadith-number-238.html |title= Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 032 (Praying at Night during Ramadhan), Hadith 238 |first= AbdAllah-Muhammad |last= Ibn-Ismail-Bukhari |work= hadithcollection.com |access-date= 28 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170922/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/65-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2032.%20Praying%20at%20Night%20In%20Ramadhan%20(Taraweeh)/2479-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-032-hadith-number-238.html |archive-date= 15 January 2013 |url-status= dead |df= dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/134-Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/10668-sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2632.html |title= Sahih Muslim&nbsp;– Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2632 |first= Abul-Hussain |last= Muslim-Ibn-Habaj |work= hadithcollection.com |access-date= 28 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170848/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/134-Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/10668-sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2632.html |archive-date= 15 January 2013 |url-status= dead |df= dmy-all }}</ref>
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''[[Laylat al-Qadr]]'' (Night of Power) is considered the holiest night of the year.<ref>Neal Robinson, ''Islam: A Concise Introduction'' (Georgetown University Press, 1999, ISBN 978-0878402243).</ref> It is, in [[Islam]]ic belief, the night when the first verses of the [[Quran]] were revealed to the [[Prophets of Islam|prophet]] [[Muhammad]]. According to many Muslim sources, this was one of the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, traditionally believed to be the twenty-third night of Ramadan.<ref>Bombay Tract and Book Society, ''Life of Mohammed'' (Wentworth Press, 2019, ISBN 978-0353880443).</ref> Since that time, Muslims have regarded the last ten nights of Ramadan as being especially blessed. The Night of Qadr comes with blessings and mercy of [[God in Islam|God]] in abundance, sins are forgiven, [[dua|supplications]] are accepted, and that the annual decree is revealed to the [[angel]]s, who carry it out according to God's plan.
  
 
=== ''Eid'' ===
 
=== ''Eid'' ===
 
{{Main|Eid al-Fitr|Eid prayers}}
 
{{Main|Eid al-Fitr|Eid prayers}}
The holiday of ''Eid al-Fitr'' (Arabic:عيد الفطر), which marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of ''[[Shawwal]]'', the next lunar month, is declared after a crescent [[new moon]] has been sighted or after completion of thirty days of fasting if no sighting of the moon is possible. ''Eid'' celebrates of the return to a more natural disposition (''fitra'') of eating, drinking, and [[intimacy|marital intimacy]].<ref name=EsinIslam>{{cite web |url= http://www.esinislam.com/Articles201009/WritersArticles_AdilSalahi_0911.htm |title= Ruling on Voluntary Fasting After The Month of Ramadan: Eid Day(s) And Ash-Shawaal |work= EsinIslam, Arab News & Information&nbsp;– By Adil Salahi |date= 11 September 2010 |access-date= 23 May 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160527052712/http://www.esinislam.com/Articles201009/WritersArticles_AdilSalahi_0911.htm |archive-date= 27 May 2016 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref>
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The holiday of ''Eid al-Fitr'' (Arabic:عيد الفطر), which marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of ''[[Shawwal]]'', the next lunar month, is declared after a crescent [[new moon]] has been sighted or after completion of thirty days of [[fasting]] if no sighting of the moon is possible. Also called the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," ''Eid al-Fitr'' celebrates of the return to a more natural disposition (''fitra'') of eating, drinking, and [[intimacy|marital intimacy]]. It is forbidden to fast on the Day of Eid, and a specific prayer is nominated for this day.<ref>Deborah Heiligman, ''Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with Praying, Fasting, and Charity'' (National Geographic Children's Books, 2006, ISBN 978-0792259268).</ref> As an obligatory act of charity, money is given to the poor and the needy before performing the ''Eid'' prayer. After the prayers, Muslims may visit their relatives, friends, and acquaintances or hold large communal celebrations in homes, community centers, or rented halls.
  
 
== Religious practices ==
 
== Religious practices ==
[[File:Ramazan with the poor.jpg|thumb|[[Azim Azimzade]]. Ramadan of the poor people. 1938]]
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[[File:Ramazan with the poor.jpg|thumb|400px|Ramadan with the poor people, [[Azim Azimzade]], 1938]]
The common practice is to fast from dawn to sunset. The pre-dawn meal before the fast is called the ''[[suhur]]'', while the meal at sunset that breaks the fast is called ''[[iftar]]''.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ramadan|title=Ramadan|last=|first=|date=|website=Britannica|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=}}</ref>
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During the month of Ramadan the common practice is to fast from dawn to sunset.  
  
Muslims devote more time to prayer and acts of charity, striving to improve their [[self-discipline]], motivated by hadith:<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sunnah.com/bukhari/30/|title=Book of Fasting&nbsp;– Sahih al-Bukhari&nbsp;– Sunnah.com&nbsp;– Sayings and Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه و سلم)|access-date=16 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150610105330/http://sunnah.com/bukhari/30|archive-date=10 June 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hadithcollection.com/.../10999-sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number%20-2361.html|title=Sahih Muslim Book 006, Hadith Number 2361.|work=Hadith Collection|access-date=16 June 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604202311/http://www.hadithcollection.com/.../10999-sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number%20-2361.html|archive-date=4 June 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref> "When Ramadan arrives, the gates of [[Paradise]] are opened and the [[gates of hell]] are locked up and devils are put in chains."<ref name=guardian>{{cite web |url= http://www.ngrguardiannews.com/features/weekend/169233-muslims-observe-ramadan-clerics-explain-significance |archive-url= https://archive.today/20140718041849/http://www.ngrguardiannews.com/features/weekend/169233-muslims-observe-ramadan-clerics-explain-significance |url-status= dead |archive-date= 18 July 2014 |title= Muslims observe Ramadan, clerics explain significance |work= Guardian News, Nigeria |date= 4 July 2014 |access-date= 16 July 2014 }}</ref>
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Muslims also devote more time to prayer and acts of charity, striving to improve their [[self-discipline]].
  
 
=== Fasting ===
 
=== Fasting ===
 
{{Main|Fasting during Ramadan}}
 
{{Main|Fasting during Ramadan}}
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of [[Islam]]. The fast (''sawm'') begins at dawn and ends at sunset. In addition to abstaining from eating and drinking during this time, Muslims abstain from sexual relations<ref name="AlJazeera"/> and sinful speech and behaviour during Ramadan fasting or month. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to [[Ritual purification|cleanse the soul]] by freeing it from harmful impurities. Muslims believe that Ramadan teaches them to practice self-discipline, self-control,<ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/content/articles/2008/08/29/ramadhan_2008_feature.shtml Why Ramadan brings us together] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090830190152/http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/content/articles/2008/08/29/ramadhan_2008_feature.shtml |date=30 August 2009 }}; ''[[BBC]]'', 1 September 2008</ref> sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate, thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (''[[zakat]]'').<ref name=WP>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/27/AR2008092702592_2.html?nav=rss_world Help for the Heavy at Ramadan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020200236/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/27/AR2008092702592_2.html?nav=rss_world |date=20 October 2016 }}, ''[[Washington Post]]'', 27 September 2008</ref>
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Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of [[Islam]]. The fast (''sawm'') begins at dawn and ends at sunset. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to [[Ritual purification|cleanse the soul]] by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan is an opportunity to practice self-discipline, self-control,<ref>Adam Yosef, [http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/content/articles/2008/08/29/ramadhan_2008_feature.shtml Why Ramadan brings us together] ''BBC'', August 25, 2009. Retrieved May 2, 20203, 2022.</ref> sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate, thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (''[[zakat]]'').<ref>Thomas Erdbrink, [https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/27/AR2008092702592.html?nav=rss_world Help for the Heavy at Ramadan] ''Washington Post'', September 28, 2008. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
 
 
Muslims also believe that for the poor people who don't have enough food they should fast so that the poor can get food to eat. This would also make them realize how poor feel when they remain hungry. The aim of fasting now seems to be being compassionate towards the poor people.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.jagatgururampalji.org/ramzan-festival-2020/|title=Ramzan festival 2020: Know about Baakhabar Saint on Ramadan|last=|first=|date=|website=SA News Channel|url-status=live|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=}}</ref>
 
  
Exemptions to fasting include travel, menstruation, severe illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. However, many Muslims with medical conditions{{vague|date=July 2019}}{{who|date=July 2019}} insist on fasting to satisfy their spiritual needs, although it is not recommended by hadith.<ref name=":0" /> Those unable to fast are obligated make up the missed days later.<ref name="q2-184">{{cite quran|2|184|s=nosup}}</ref>
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Exemptions to fasting include travel, [[menstruation]], severe illness, [[pregnancy]], and breastfeeding. Muslims with medical conditions are recommended not to fast, although those unable to fast due to travel of temporary sickness are obligated make up the missed days later.<ref name="q2-184">{{cite quran|2|184|s=nosup}}</ref>
  
 
==== ''Suhoor'' ====
 
==== ''Suhoor'' ====
 
{{Main|Suhoor}}
 
{{Main|Suhoor}}
[[File:Iftar in Istanbul Turkey.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Iftar]] at [[Sultan Ahmed Mosque]] in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]]]
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Each day before dawn, Muslims observe a pre-fast meal called the ''[[suhoor]]'' ("pre-dawn meal"). Sahur is regarded by Islamic traditions as a benefit of the [[barakah|blessings]] in that it allows the person fasting to avoid the crankiness or weakness caused by the fast. According to a [[hadith]] in ''[[Sahih al-Bukhari]]'', [[Anas ibn Malik]] narrated, "The Prophet said, 'take sahur as there is a blessing in it.'"<ref>''Bukhari'': Book 3: Vol. 31: Hadith 146 (Fasting).</ref>
Each day, before dawn, Muslims observe a pre-fast meal called the ''[[suhoor]]''. After stopping a short time before dawn, Muslims begin the first prayer of the day, ''[[Fajr]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/134-Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/10921-sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2415.html |title= Sahih Muslim&nbsp;– Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2415 |first= Abul-Hussain |last= Muslim-Ibn-Habaj |work= hadithcollection.com |year= 2009 |access-date= 25 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170800/http://www.hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/134-Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/10921-sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2415.html |archive-date= 15 January 2013 |url-status= dead |df= dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2446-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-144.html |title= Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 144 |first= AbdAllah-Muhammad |last= Ibn-Ismail-Bukhari |work= hadithcollection.com |year= 2009 |access-date= 25 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170927/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2446-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-144.html |archive-date= 15 January 2013 |url-status= dead |df= dmy-all}}</ref>
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After the meal, and still before dawn, Muslims begin the first prayer of the day, ''[[Fajr]]''.<ref>Abul-Hussain Muslim-Ibn-Habaj, [http://www.hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/Sahih%20Muslim%20Book%2006.%20Fasting/sahih-muslim-book-006-hadith-number-2415.html Sahih Muslim&nbsp;– Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2415] ''Hadith Collection''. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
  
 
==== ''Iftar'' ====
 
==== ''Iftar'' ====
 
{{Main|Iftar}}
 
{{Main|Iftar}}
At sunset, families break the fast with the ''[[iftar]]'', traditionally opening the meal by eating [[Phoenix dactylifera#Dates|dates]] to commemorate Muhammad's practice of breaking the fast with three dates.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Oxford dictionary of Islam|date=2003|publisher=Oxford University Press|others=Esposito, John L.|isbn=0-19-512558-4|location=New York|oclc=50280143|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/oxforddictionary00bada}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Indrayani|first=Suharti|date=2018|title=How do Muslims consume dates?|url=http://www.pjmhsonline.com/2018/oct_dec/pdf/1732.pdf|journal=Pakistani Journal of Medical and Health Sciences|volume=12|pages=1732–1743|via=}}</ref> They then adjourn for ''[[Maghrib]]'', the fourth of the five required daily [[prayers]], after which the main meal is served.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/Muslims_fast_and_feast_as_Ramadan_begins.html?showFullArticle=y |title=Muslims fast and feast as Ramadan begins |first=Melissa |last=Fletcher Stoeltje |date=22 August 2009 |access-date=22 July 2012 |work=[[San Antonio Express-News]]}}</ref>
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[[File:Iftar in Istanbul Turkey.jpg|thumb|300px|Preparing for [[Iftar]] at [[Sultan Ahmed Mosque]] in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]]]
 
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At sunset, families break the fast with the ''[[iftar]]'', traditionally opening the meal by eating [[Phoenix dactylifera|dates]] to commemorate [[Muhammad]]'s practice of breaking the fast with three dates.<ref>John L. Esposito, ''The Oxford dictionary of Islam'' (Oxford University Press, 2004, ISBN 978-0195125597).</ref> They then adjourn for ''[[Maghrib]]'', the fourth of the five required daily [[prayers]], after which the main meal is served.<ref> Melissa Fletcher Stoeltje, [https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/article/Muslims-fast-and-feast-as-Ramadan-begins-848832.php?showFullArticle=y Muslims fast and feast as Ramadan begins] ''San Antonio Express-News'', August 22, 2009. Retrieved May 3, 2022. </ref>
Social gatherings, many times in [[buffet]] style, are frequent at ''iftar''. Traditional dishes are often highlighted, including traditional desserts, particularly those made only during Ramadan.{{such as|date=July 2019}} Water is usually the beverage of choice, but juice and milk are also often available, as are soft drinks and caffeinated beverages.<ref name="dieticiannour">{{cite web |url=http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/072709p56.shtml |title=Understanding Muslim Fasting Practices |first1=Dr. Nour |last1=El-Zibdeh |work=todaysdietitian.com |access-date=25 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120731172803/http://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/072709p56.shtml |archive-date=31 July 2012 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
 
 
 
In the [[Middle East]], ''iftar'' consists of water, juices, dates, salads and appetizers; one or more main dishes; and rich desserts, with dessert considered the most important aspect of the meal.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Oxford companion to sugar and sweets|last=Goldstein, Darra|isbn=978-0-19-931361-7|location=Oxford|oclc=905969818|date = April 2015}}</ref> Typical main dishes include lamb stewed with wheat berries, lamb kebabs with grilled vegetables, and roasted chicken served with chickpea-studded rice pilaf. Desserts may include ''luqaimat'', [[baklava]] or ''[[kanafeh|kunafeh]]''.<ref name="la">{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/features/food/la-fo-ramadan-20120721,0,1433650.story |title=Ramadan's high note is often a dip |first1=Faye |last1=Levy |first2=Yakir |last2=Levy |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=21 July 2012 |access-date=22 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722134003/http://www.latimes.com/features/food/la-fo-ramadan-20120721,0,1433650.story |archive-date=22 July 2012 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
 
  
Over time, the practice of ''iftar'' has involved into banquets that may accommodate hundreds or even thousands of diners.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2010-08-08/news/fl-ramadan-food-20100808_1_iftar-fasting-muslims-hail |title=Ramadan: Muslims feast and fast during holy month |first=James D. |last=Davis |date=8 August 2010 |access-date=22 July 2012 |work=[[South Florida Sun-Sentinel]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706233740/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2010-08-08/news/fl-ramadan-food-20100808_1_iftar-fasting-muslims-hail |archive-date=6 July 2011 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The [[Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque]] in [[Abu Dhabi]], the largest mosque in the [[UAE]], feeds up to thirty thousand people every night.<ref>{{cite news |title=Abu Dhabi's Grand Mosque feeds 30,000 during Ramadan |url=https://www.euronews.com/2019/05/10/abu-dhabi-s-grand-mosque-feeds-30-000-during-ramadan |access-date=11 May 2019 |agency=Euro News |publisher=euronews.com |date=10 May 2019}}</ref> Some twelve thousand people attend ''iftar'' at the [[Imam Reza shrine]] in [[Mashhad]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ahmadi |first1=Gisoo Misha |title=Iran's Mashhad hosts biggest "Iftar" in world |url=https://www.presstv.com/Detail/2015/07/11/419846/Iran-Mashhad-Iftar-Ramadan- |accessdate=11 May 2019 |agency=Presstv |publisher=presstv.com |date=11 July 2015}}</ref>
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Social gatherings, with the food many times served in [[buffet]] style, are frequent at ''iftar''. Traditional dishes are often highlighted. Water is usually the beverage of choice, but juice and milk are also often available, as are soft drinks and caffeinated beverages.<ref> Nour El-Zibdeh, [https://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/072709p56.shtml Understanding Muslim Fasting Practices] ''Today's Dietitian'', 11(8) (August 2009): 56. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
[[File:Iftar Serving for fasting people in the holy shrine of Imam Reza 05 ().jpg|thumb|Iftar serving for fasting people in the [[Imam Reza shrine]]]]
 
  
=== Charity ===
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In the [[Middle East]], ''iftar'' consists of water, juices, dates, salads, and appetizers; one or more main dishes; and rich desserts, with dessert considered the most important aspect of the meal.<ref>Darra Goldstein (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Sugar and Sweets'' (Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0199313396). </ref> Typical main dishes include lamb stewed with wheat berries, lamb kebabs with grilled vegetables, and roasted chicken served with chickpea-studded rice pilaf. Desserts may include ''luqaimat'', [[baklava]], or ''[[kanafeh|kunafeh]]''.<ref>Faye and Yakir Levy, [https://www.latimes.com/food/la-fo-ramadan-20120721-story.html Ramadan's high note is often a dip] ''Los Angeles Times'', July 21, 2012. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
{{Main|Zakāt|Sadaqah}}
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[[File:Iftar Serving for fasting people in the holy shrine of Imam Reza 05 ().jpg|thumb|400px|Iftar at the [[Imam Reza shrine]]]]
[[File:Men praying in Afghanistan.jpg|thumb|Men praying during Ramadan at the [[Shrine of Ali]] or "Blue Mosque" in [[Mazar-i-Sharif]], [[Afghanistan]]]]
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Over time, the practice of ''iftar'' has involved into banquets that may accommodate hundreds or even thousands of diners. The [[Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque]] in [[Abu Dhabi]], the largest mosque in the [[UAE]], feeds up to thirty thousand people every night.<ref>[https://www.euronews.com/2019/05/10/abu-dhabi-s-grand-mosque-feeds-30-000-during-ramadan Abu Dhabi's Grand Mosque feeds 30,000 during Ramadan] ''Euro News'', May 10, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2022. </ref> Some twelve thousand people attend ''iftar'' every night at the [[Imam Reza shrine]] in [[Mashhad]].<ref>Gisoo Misha Ahmadi, [http://www.iranmirrorbd.com/en/2016/06/15/irans-mashhad-hosts-biggest-iftar-in-world/ Iran's Mashhad hosts biggest "Iftar" in world] ''Iran Mirror'', June 15, 2016. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
''[[Zakāt]]'', often translated as "the poor-rate", is the fixed percentage of income a believer is required to give to the poor; the practice is obligatory as one of the [[pillars of Islam]]. Muslims believe that good deeds are rewarded more handsomely during Ramadan than at any other time of the year; consequently, many{{who|date=July 2019}} donate a larger portion—or even all—of their yearly ''zakāt'' during this month.{{Citation needed|date=July 2012}}
 
  
 
=== Nightly prayers ===
 
=== Nightly prayers ===
 
{{Main|Tarawih}}
 
{{Main|Tarawih}}
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[[File:Men praying in Afghanistan.jpg|thumb|400px|Men praying during Ramadan at the [[Shrine of Ali]] or "Blue Mosque" in [[Mazar-i-Sharif]], [[Afghanistan]]]]
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''[[Tarawih]]'' ({{lang-ar|تراويح}}) literally "rest and relaxation," are extra nightly prayers performed during the month of Ramadan. It may involve reading one Juz' (Arabic: جُزْء, or section of the [[Quran]]. Unlike the five daily ''salat'' ritual prayers which are ''fard'' (obligatory) under Islamic law, ''tarawih'' prayers are considered optional (''sunnah''  “habitual practice”).<ref>Shaykh Furhan Zubairi, [https://muslimmatters.org/2020/04/14/guidance-for-praying-tarawih-at-home/ Guidance For Praying Tarawih At Home] ''Muslim Matters''. Retrieved May 3, 2022. </ref>
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 +
=== Recitation of the Quran ===
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Muslims are encouraged to read the entire [[Quran]], which comprises thirty ''[[juz']]'' (sections), over the thirty days of Ramadan. Some Muslims incorporate a recitation of one ''juz''' into each of the thirty ''[[tarawih]]'' sessions observed during the month.<ref>Huda, [https://www.learnreligions.com/what-is-ramadan-2004619 All About Ramadan, Islam's Holy Month] ''Learn Religions'', April 8, 2021. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
  
''[[Tarawih]]'' ({{lang-ar|تراويح}}) are extra nightly prayers performed during the month of Ramadan. Contrary to popular belief, they are not compulsory.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.islamhelpline.com/qa/tarawih-prayer-nafl-or-sunnah|title=Tarawih Prayer a Nafl or Sunnah|access-date=16 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118190826/http://www.islamhelpline.com/qa/tarawih-prayer-nafl-or-sunnah|archive-date=18 November 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
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=== ''Zakat al-Fitr'' ===
 +
{{Main|Zakāt|Sadaqah}}
 +
''[[Zakat al-Fitr]]'' or ''Sadaqat al-Fitr'' is a charitable obligation, mandatory for all Muslims&nbsp;— male or female, minor or adult as long as they have the means to do so&nbsp;— that is traditionally paid before the end of Ramadan.<ref>[https://www.hidaya.org/social-welfare/sadaqat-ul-fitr/ Sadaqat-ul-Fitr] ''Hidaya Foundation''. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> The collected amount is used to pay the [[zakat]] collectors and to the poor so that they may be provided with a means to celebrate ''[[Eid al-Fitr]]'' (the [[festival]] of breaking the fast) following Ramadan.
  
=== Recitation of the Quran ===
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''Zakat al-Fitr'', the special contribution during Ramadan, is a fixed amount assessed per person, while [[Zakat]], or ''Zakat al-mal'' ("zakat on wealth"), one of the [[Five Pillars of Islam]], zakat is a religious duty for all Muslims, is based on personal income and property.
Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Quran, which comprises thirty ''[[juz']]'' (sections), over the thirty days of Ramadan. Some Muslims incorporate a recitation of one ''juz''' into each of the thirty ''[[tarawih]]'' sessions observed during the month.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.learnreligions.com/what-is-ramadan-2004619|title=How Do Muslims Celebrate Ramadan?|last=Underst|first=Huda Huda is the author of "The Everything|last2=Complete|first2=ing Islam Book: A.|website=Learn Religions|language=en|access-date=2019-06-26|last3=Beliefs|first3=Easy to Read Guide to Muslim|last4=Practices|last5=Traditions|last6=Culture."}}</ref>
 
  
 
== Cultural practices ==
 
== Cultural practices ==
In some Islamic countries, lights are strung up in public squares and across city streets,<ref>{{cite web |url= http://abcnews.go.com/International/slideshow/muslims-begin-fasting-start-ramadan-holy-month-16822614 |title= Muslims begin fasting for Ramadan|work= ABC News |date= 18 July 2012 |access-date= 6 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120721093053/http://abcnews.go.com/International/slideshow/muslims-begin-fasting-start-ramadan-holy-month-16822614 |archive-date=2012-07-21 |df=dmy-all |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/the-spirit-of-ramadan-is-here-but-why-is-it-still-so-dark |title= The spirit of Ramadan is here, but why is it still so dark? |author= Taryam Al Subaihi |date= 29 July 2012 |work= The National |access-date= 30 July 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120731232232/http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/comment/the-spirit-of-ramadan-is-here-but-why-is-it-still-so-dark |archive-date= 31 July 2012 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://shine.yahoo.com/decorate-ramadan-175400368.html |title= How to decorate for Ramadan |first= Sylvia |last= Cochran |work= Yahoo-Shine|date= 8 August 2011 |access-date= 6 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115184556/http://shine.yahoo.com/decorate-ramadan-175400368.html |archive-date=2013-01-15 |df=dmy-all |url-status=dead}}</ref> a tradition believed to have originated during the [[Fatimid Caliphate]], where the rule of [[Caliph]] [[al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah]] was acclaimed by people holding lanterns.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/features/features/2015/06/19/Ramadan-is-here-light-up-your-lanterns.html |title=How did the Ramadan lantern become a symbol of the holy month? |last=Harrison |first=Peter |date=2016-06-09 |work=[[Al Arabiya]] |access-date=2019-05-06 |df=dmy-all }}{{Dead link|date=August 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
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In some Islamic countries, lights are strung up in public squares and across city streets, a tradition believed to have originated during the [[Fatimid Caliphate]], where the rule of [[Caliph]] [[al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah]] was acclaimed by people holding [[lantern]]s.<ref>Noura Anwar, [https://www.arabamerica.com/symbol-ramadan-lantern-qatayef/ Two Cultural Symbols of Ramadan: Lantern and Qatayef] ''Arab America'', June 7, 2017. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
  
On the island of [[Java]], many believers bathe in holy springs to prepare for fasting, a ritual known as ''Padusan''.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://jglo.be/khxt |title=This Is How Indonesia Welcomes Ramadan |date=2019-05-04 |work=[[Jakarta Globe]] |access-date=2019-05-06 |df=dmy-all}}</ref> The city of [[Semarang]] marks the beginning of Ramadan with the Dugderan carnival, which involves parading the [[Warak ngendog]], a horse-dragon hybrid creature allegedly inspired by the [[Buraq]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.matasejarah.com/2016/07/tradisi-dugderan-di-kota-semarang.html |title=Tradisi Dugderan di Kota Semarang|work=Mata Sejarah |access-date=18 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170412143319/http://www.matasejarah.com/2016/07/tradisi-dugderan-di-kota-semarang.html |archive-date=12 April 2017 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all |language=id}}</ref> In the Chinese-influenced capital city of [[Jakarta]], firecrackers are widely used to celebrate Ramadan, although they are officially illegal.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/12/19/world/jakarta-journal-it-s-ramadan-school-is-out-quick-the-earplugs.html |title=Jakarta Journal; It's Ramadan. School Is Out. Quick, the Earplugs! |last=Sims |first=Calvin |date=2000-12-19 |work=[[The New York Times]] |access-date=2019-05-06 |df=dmy-all |issn=0362-4331 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506171434/https://www.nytimes.com/2000/12/19/world/jakarta-journal-it-s-ramadan-school-is-out-quick-the-earplugs.html |archive-date=6 May 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> Towards the end of Ramadan, most employees receive a one-month bonus known as ''Tunjangan Hari Raya''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://emerhub.com/indonesia/thr/ |title=Understanding the Religious Holiday Allowance THR in Indonesia |date=2018-12-06 |website=Emerhub |df=dmy-all |access-date=2019-05-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506171442/https://emerhub.com/indonesia/thr/ |archive-date=6 May 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> Certain kinds of food are especially popular during Ramadan, such as large beef or buffalo in [[Aceh]] and snails in [[Central Java]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2014/07/07/on-hunt-delectable-snacks.html |title=On the hunt for delectable snacks |last=Maryono |first=Agus |date=2014-07-07 |work=[[The Jakarta Post]] |access-date=2019-05-06 |last2=Endi |first2=Severianus |df=dmy-all |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506171437/https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2014/07/07/on-hunt-delectable-snacks.html |archive-date=6 May 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[iftar]] meal is announced every evening by striking the [[bedug]], a giant drum, in the mosque.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/ramadan-2016/ramadan-news/diverse-traditions-that-welcome-the-holy-month-in-indonesia |title=Diverse traditions that welcome the holy month in Indonesia |last=Saifudeen |first=Yousuf |date=2016-06-12 |work=[[Khaleej Times]] |access-date=2019-05-06 |df=dmy-all |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506171433/https://www.khaleejtimes.com/ramadan-2016/ramadan-news/diverse-traditions-that-welcome-the-holy-month-in-indonesia |archive-date=6 May 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref>
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In [[Indonesia]], the [[iftar]] meal is announced every evening by striking the ''[[bedug]]'', a giant [[drum]], in the [[mosque]]. The bedug is also part of the ''Eid al-Fitr'' celebrations at the end of Ramadan. Starting on the evening of the last day of Ramadan and continuing throughout the night and into the following day, the bedug are beaten for the ''Takbiran'' prayers and during parades and celebrations of ''Eid al-Fitr''.<ref>[https://www.expat.or.id/info/lebaran.html Ramadan and Lebaran in Indonesia] ''Living in Indonesia'', November 7, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> On the island of [[Java]], many believers bathe in holy springs to prepare for fasting, a ritual known as ''Padusan''.<ref>[https://jakartaglobe.id/vision/this-is-how-indonesia-welcomes-ramadan This Is How Indonesia Welcomes Ramadan] ''Jakarta Globe'', May 4, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> In the Chinese-influenced capital city of [[Jakarta]], firecrackers are widely used to celebrate Ramadan, although they are officially illegal.<ref>Calvin Sims, [https://www.nytimes.com/2000/12/19/world/jakarta-journal-it-s-ramadan-school-is-out-quick-the-earplugs.html Jakarta Journal; It's Ramadan. School Is Out. Quick, the Earplugs!] ''The New York Times'', December 19, 2000. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> Certain kinds of food are especially popular during Ramadan, such as large beef or buffalo in [[Aceh]] and snails in [[Central Java]].<ref>Agus Maryono and Severianus Endi, [https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2014/07/07/on-hunt-delectable-snacks.html On the hunt for delectable snacks] ''The Jakarta Post'', July 7, 2014. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>  
  
Common greetings during Ramadan include ''Ramadan mubarak'' and ''Ramadan kareem''.<ref>[https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/06/15/ramadan-2015-facts-dates_n_7554256.html Ramadan 2015: Facts, History, Dates, Greeting And Rules About The Muslim Fast] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710084438/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/06/15/ramadan-2015-facts-dates_n_7554256.html |date=10 July 2015 }}, [[Huffington Post]], 15 June 2015</ref>
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During Ramadan in countries in the Middle East, such as Egypt, Syria, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Pakistan, and Palestine, a ''Mesaharati'' beats a [[drum]] to wake people up to eat the ''suhoor'' meal and dawn prayer.<ref> Jihad Abaza, [https://www.middleeasteye.net/fr/node/71378 Meet Cairo’s mesaharati: The spirit of Ramadan beats to a woman’s drums] ''Middle East Eye'', June 11, 2018. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> Similarly, in Indonesia and nearby countries in Southeast Asia, a slit drum known as a ''kentongan'' is used to wake households up for the pre-dawn meal.  
 
 
During Ramadan in the Middle East, a ''mesaharati'' beats a drum across a neighbourhood to wake people up to eat the suhoor meal. Similarly in Southeast Asia, the ''kentongan'' [[slit drum]] is used for the same purpose.
 
  
 
{{Gallery
 
{{Gallery
|File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Oproep tot het gebed op vrijdag via de trom bij de moskee Tulehu TMnr 20018271.jpg|Striking the [[bedug]] in Indonesia
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|File:COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Oproep tot het gebed op vrijdag via de trom bij de moskee Tulehu TMnr 20018271.jpg|Striking the [[bedug]] in [[Indonesia]]
|File:هلال رمضان.jpg|[[Crescent]] is colourfully decorated and illuminated during Ramadan in [[Jordan]]
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|File:هلال رمضان.jpg| The statue of the crescent in one of the squares was decorated in color and beautifully lit to celebrate the month of Ramadan in [[Jordan]]
 
|File:Ramadan jerusalem kmhad.jpg|Ramadan in the Old City of [[Jerusalem]]
 
|File:Ramadan jerusalem kmhad.jpg|Ramadan in the Old City of [[Jerusalem]]
|File:Lanterns from below.JPG|[[Fanous Ramadan]] decorations in [[Cairo]], [[Egypt]]
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|File:Lanterns from below.JPG|Ramadan lanterns in [[Cairo]], [[Egypt]]
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Observance ==
 
== Observance ==
Fasting from sunrise to sunset is ''[[fard]]'' (obligatory) for all adult Muslims who are not [[acute illness|acutely]] or [[chronic illness|chronically ill]], travelling, [[old age|elderly]], [[pregnancy|pregnant]], [[breastfeeding]], [[Diabetes mellitus|diabetic]], or [[Menstruation in Islam|menstruating]].<ref>Fasting (Al Siyam)&nbsp;– {{lang|ar|الصيام}}&nbsp;– p. 18, el Bahay el Kholi, 1998</ref> The predawn meal is referred to as ''[[suhur]]'', and the nightly feast that breaks the fast is called ''[[iftar]]''.<ref>Islam, Andrew Egan&nbsp;– 2002&nbsp;– p. 24</ref><ref>Dubai&nbsp;– p. 189, Andrea Schulte-Peevers&nbsp;– 2010</ref> Although ''[[fatwa]]s'' have been issued declaring that Muslims who live in regions with a [[midnight sun]] or [[polar night]] should follow the timetable of [[Mecca]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.saudiaramcoworld.com/issue/201201/ramadan.in.the.farthest.north.htm|website=Saudi Aramco World|title=Ramadan in the Farthest North|access-date=16 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204183609/https://www.saudiaramcoworld.com/issue/201201/ramadan.in.the.farthest.north.htm|archive-date=4 February 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> it is common practice to follow the timetable of the closest country in which night can be distinguished from day.<ref name="Ramadan2014"/><ref name="ottawacitizen"/><ref name="ArcticRamadan"/>
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Fasting from sunrise to sunset is ''[[fard]]'' (obligatory) for all adult Muslims who are not [[acute illness|acutely]] or [[chronic illness|chronically ill]], traveling, [[old age|elderly]], [[pregnancy|pregnant]], [[breastfeeding]], [[Diabetes mellitus|diabetic]], or [[Menstruation|menstruating]]. A predawn meal, ''[[suhoor]]'', and nightly feast, ''[[iftar]]'', that breaks the fast, are part of the schedule of fasting. There is widespread observance, with the majority (over 90 percent) of Muslims reporting that they fast during Ramadan.<ref> Fatima Ghani, [https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2013/07/09/global-median-of-93-of-muslims-say-they-fast-during-ramadan/ Most Muslims say they fast during Ramadan] ''Pew Research Center'', July 9, 2013. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>  
 
 
The spiritual rewards (''[[thawab]]'') of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2465-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-125.html|title=Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 125.|last=Bukhari-Ibn-Ismail|first=AbdAllah-Muhammad|work=hadithcollection.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170845/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2465-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-125.html|archive-date=15 January 2013|url-status=dead|access-date=25 July 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
 
Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also [[tobacco product]]s, [[sexual relations]], and [[Islamic views on sin|sinful behavior]],<ref>{{cite book|last1=Smith|first1=Jane I.|title=Islam in America|date=2010|publisher=[[Columbia University Press]]|isbn=978-0231147101|page=15|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Tom-AwAAQBAJ&pg=PA15|access-date=30 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Hotaling|first1=Edward|title=Islam Without Illusions: Its Past, Its Present, and Its Challenge for the Future|date=2003|publisher=Syracuse University Press|isbn=978-0815607663|page=[https://archive.org/details/islamwithoutillu0000hota/page/57 57]|url=https://archive.org/details/islamwithoutillu0000hota|url-access=registration|access-date=30 May 2017}}</ref> devoting themselves instead to ''[[salat]]'' ([[prayer]]), recitation of the [[Quran]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cmje.org/religious-texts/hadith/abudawud/006-sat.php|title=Sunan Abu-Dawud&nbsp;– (The Book of Prayer)&nbsp;– Detailed Injunctions about Ramadan, Hadith 1370|last=[[Abu Dawud]]-Ibn-Ash'ath-AsSijisstani|first=Sulayman|work=Center for Muslim-Jewish Engagement of The University of Southern California|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615174109/http://www.cmje.org/religious-texts/hadith/abudawud/006-sat.php|archive-date=15 June 2012|url-status=live|access-date=25 July 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2391-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-199.html|title=Sahih Bukhari&nbsp;– Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 199.|last=Bukhari-Ibn-Ismail|first=AbdAllah-Muhammad|work=hadithcollection.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115170800/http://hadithcollection.com/sahihbukhari/64-Sahih%20Bukhari%20Book%2031.%20Fasting/2391-sahih-bukhari-volume-003-book-031-hadith-number-199.html|archive-date=15 January 2013|url-status=dead|access-date=25 July 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref> and the performance of charitable deeds{{Citation needed|date=July 2019}} as they strive for [[ritual purification|purity]] and heightened awareness of [[Allah|God]] (''[[taqwa]]'').{{Citation needed|date=July 2019}}
 
 
 
  
According to a 2012 [[Pew Research Centre]] study, there was widespread Ramadan observance, with a median of 93 percent across the thirty-nine countries and territories studied.<ref name="prc" >{{cite web|title=Most Muslims say they fast during Ramadan|url=http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2013/07/09/global-median-of-93-of-muslims-say-they-fast-during-ramadan/|website=Pew Research Center|access-date=14 November 2017|date=9 July 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171114145215/http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2013/07/09/global-median-of-93-of-muslims-say-they-fast-during-ramadan/|archive-date=14 November 2017|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Regions with high percentages of fasting among Muslims include [[Southeast Asia]], [[South Asia]], [[Middle East and North Africa]], [[Horn of Africa]] and most of [[Sub-Saharan Africa]].<ref name="prc" /> Percentages are lower in [[Central Asia]] and [[Southeast Europe]].<ref name="prc" />
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The spiritual rewards (''[[thawab]]'') of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan.
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Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also [[tobacco product]]s, [[sexual relations]], and [[Islamic views on sin|sinful behavior]],<ref> Ed Hotaling, ''Islam Without Illusions: Its Past, Its Present, and Its Challenge for the Future'' (Syracuse University Press, 2003, ISBN 0815607660).</ref> devoting themselves instead to ''[[salat]]'' ([[prayer]]), recitation of the [[Quran]], and the performance of charitable deeds.
  
 
=== Ramadan in polar regions ===
 
=== Ramadan in polar regions ===
[[File:Netanyahu and Mubarak checking their watches.jpg|thumb|During 2010 Middle East negotiations in the United States, [[Hosni Mubarak]] and [[Benjamin Netanyahu]] check their watches to see if the Sun has set.]]
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The length of the dawn to sunset time varies in different parts of the world according to summer or winter solstices of the Sun. Most Muslims fast for eleven to sixteen hours during Ramadan. However, in polar regions, the period between dawn and sunset may exceed twenty-two hours in summer. For example, in 2014, Muslims in [[Reykjavik]], [[Iceland]], and [[Trondheim]], [[Norway]], fasted almost twenty-two hours, while Muslims in [[Sydney]], [[Australia]], fasted for only about eleven hours. In areas characterized by continuous night or day, some Muslims follow the fasting schedule observed in the nearest city that experiences sunrise and sunset, while others follow [[Mecca]] time.<ref> Ashifa Kassam, [https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jul/03/ramadan-canada-arctic-fasting-hours-sunlight Arctic Ramadan: fasting in land of midnight sun comes with a challenge] ''The Guardian'', July 3, 2016. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
The length of the dawn to sunset time varies in different parts of the world according to summer or winter solstices of the Sun. Most Muslims fast for eleven to sixteen hours during Ramadan. However, in polar regions, the period between dawn and sunset may exceed twenty-two hours in summer. For example, in 2014, Muslims in Reykjavik, Iceland, and Trondheim, Norway, fasted almost twenty-two hours, while Muslims in Sydney, Australia, fasted for only about eleven hours. In areas characterized by continuous night or day, some Muslims follow the fasting schedule observed in the nearest city that experiences sunrise and sunset, while others follow Mecca time.<ref name="Ramadan2014">See article "How Long Muslims Fast For Ramadan Around The World" -Huffingtonpost.co /31 July 2014 and article "Fasting Hours of Ramadan 2014" -Onislam.net / 29 June 2014 and article "The true spirit of Ramadan" -Gulfnews.com /31 July 2014</ref><ref name="ottawacitizen">See article by Imam Mohamad Jebara "The fasting of Ramadan is not meant to punish" https://ottawacitizen.com/opinion/columnists/jebara-the-fasting-of-ramadan-is-not-meant-to-punish {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190507015923/https://ottawacitizen.com/opinion/columnists/jebara-the-fasting-of-ramadan-is-not-meant-to-punish |date=7 May 2019 }}</ref><ref name="ArcticRamadan">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jul/03/ramadan-canada-arctic-fasting-hours-sunlight|title=Arctic Ramadan: fasting in land of midnight sun comes with a challenge|last=Kassam|first=Ashifa|date=3 July 2016|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=6 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160707050659/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jul/03/ramadan-canada-arctic-fasting-hours-sunlight|archive-date=7 July 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
 
  
 
=== Ramadan in Earth orbit===
 
=== Ramadan in Earth orbit===
[[List of Muslim astronauts|Muslim astronauts]] in space schedule religious practices around the time zone of their last location on Earth. For example, this means an astronaut from Malaysia launching from the [[Kennedy Space Center]] in Florida would center their fast according to sunrise and sunset in [[Eastern Time Zone|Eastern Standard Time]]. This includes times for daily prayers, as well as sunset and sunrise for Ramadan.<ref>''A Guideline of Performing ''Ibadah'' at the International Space Station (ISS)''</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/09/magazine/09interstellar.html|title=Interstellar Ramadan|last=Donadio|first=Rachel|date=2007-12-09|work=The New York Times|access-date=2019-12-05|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}</ref>
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Muslim [[astronaut]]s in space schedule religious practices around the time zone of their last location on Earth. For example, an astronaut from Malaysia launching from the [[Kennedy Space Center]] in [[Florida]] would align their fast according to sunrise and sunset in [[Eastern Time Zone|Eastern Standard Time]]. This includes times for daily prayers, as well as sunset and sunrise for Ramadan.<ref>Rachel Donadio, [https://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/09/magazine/09interstellar.html Interstellar Ramadan] ''The New York Times Magazine'', December 9, 2007. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> Astronauts may also delay their Ramadan observance until they return to earth, if this is more practical.
 
 
 
 
=== Laws ===
 
In some [[List of Muslim majority countries|Muslim countries]], failing to observe the Ramadan fast is a [[crime]].<ref name="Ramadan 2019: 9 questions about the Muslim holy month you were too embarrassed to ask">{{cite web|title=Ramadan 2019: 9 questions about the Muslim holy month you were too embarrassed to ask|url= https://www.vox.com/2017/5/25/11851766/what-is-ramadan-2019-start-date-muslim-islam-about|publisher= Vox|date= 6 June 2016}}</ref><ref name="Breaking Pakistan's Ramadan Fasting Laws Has Serious Consequences">{{cite web|title=Breaking Pakistan's Ramadan Fasting Laws Has Serious Consequences|url= https://www.npr.org/2018/05/25/614315937/breaking-pakistan-s-ramadan-fasting-laws-have-serious-consequences|publisher= NPR}}</ref><ref name="Break down by region">{{cite web|title=Not so fast! Ramadan laws in Arab countries make you think twice before digging in|url= https://www.albawaba.com/slideshow/not-so-fast-ramadan-laws-these-arab-countries-will-make-you-think-twice-digging-709066|publisher= Albawaba News}}</ref> The sale of alcohol is prohibited in [[Egypt]].<ref>"[http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/48444/Egypt/Politics-/Egypts-tourism-minister-confirms-alcohol-prohibiti.aspx Egypt's tourism minister 'confirms' alcohol prohibition on Islamic holidays beyond Ramadan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130811064259/http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/48444/Egypt/Politics-/Egypts-tourism-minister-confirms-alcohol-prohibiti.aspx |date=11 August 2013 }}," ''[[Al-Ahram]]'', 22 July 2012.</ref>
 
In [[Kuwait]], the penalty for eating, drinking or smoking during daytime is a fine of no more than one hundred [[Kuwaiti dinar]] or incarceration for no more than one month, or both.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.moi.gov.kw/portal/vEnglish/pressrel.asp?objectid=%7B220CBBC3-8EA9-4835-A491-C368B0689E55%7D&catid=%7B506BD210-2218-41DE-9648-30A1C3AAD0F6%7D&year=&relid=%7B57BF4B27-AAFB-4F61-9065-B013FA96A464%7D |title=Press release by Kuwait Ministry Of Interior |access-date=10 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009151115/https://www.moi.gov.kw/portal/vEnglish/pressrel.asp?objectid=%7B220CBBC3-8EA9-4835-A491-C368B0689E55%7D&catid=%7B506BD210-2218-41DE-9648-30A1C3AAD0F6%7D&year=&relid=%7B57BF4B27-AAFB-4F61-9065-B013FA96A464%7D |archive-date=9 October 2016 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | title = KD 100 fine, one month prison for public eating, drinking | newspaper = Friday Times | publisher = Kuwait Times Newspaper | date = 21 August 2009 | url = http://www.kuwaittimes.net/read_news.php?newsid=MTE3NDM5MzY5NA | access-date = 17 November 2009 }}{{dead link|date=April 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> In some [[United Arab Emirates]] jurisdictions, eating or drinking in public is considered a minor offence punishable by up to one hundred fifty hours of community service.<ref>{{Cite news | last = Salama | first = Samir | title = New penalty for minor offences in UAE | newspaper = Gulf News | location = Dubai, UAE | publisher = Al Nisr Publishing LLC | date = 16 July 2009 | url = http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/crime/new-penalty-for-minor-offences-in-uae-1.492892 | access-date = 17 November 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100301171003/http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/crime/new-penalty-for-minor-offences-in-uae-1.492892 | archive-date = 1 March 2010 | url-status = dead | df = dmy-all }}</ref> Courts in [[Saudi Arabia]], described by ''[[The Economist]]'' as taking Ramadan "more seriously than anywhere else",<ref>{{cite news|title=Ramadan in Saudi Arabia: Taking it to heart|url=https://www.economist.com/news/middle-east-and-africa/21700396-kingdom-treats-holy-month-more-seriously-anywhere-else-taking-it|access-date=11 June 2016|work=[[The Economist]]|date=11 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610210452/http://www.economist.com/news/middle-east-and-africa/21700396-kingdom-treats-holy-month-more-seriously-anywhere-else-taking-it|archive-date=10 June 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> may impose harsher punishments, including flogging, imprisonment and, for non-Muslim foreigners who consume food or drink in public, deportation.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ramadan warning for expats in Saudi Arabia |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/expatnews/9422969/Ramadan-warning-for-expats-in-Saudi-Arabia.html |website=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=11 March 2019 |date=24 July 2012 |last1=Hyslop |first1=Leah |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020011822/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/expatnews/9422969/Ramadan-warning-for-expats-in-Saudi-Arabia.html |archive-date=20 October 2018 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>[https://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2013/jul/10/ramadan-numbers Ramadan in numbers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170512000111/https://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2013/jul/10/ramadan-numbers |date=12 May 2017 }}, 10 July 2013, ''[[The Guardian]]''</ref> In Malaysia, breaking the fast prior to sundown may result in arrest by the [[Islamic religious police|religious police]], while the sale of food, drink, or tobacco for immediate consumption can incur a fine of up to one thousand [[ringgit]] and six months' imprisonment, penalties that are doubled for repeat offenses.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://poskod.my/features/ramadan-fasting-fines-malaysia/ |title=The Hard and Fast Rules of Ramadan |access-date=14 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190414081040/https://poskod.my/features/ramadan-fasting-fines-malaysia/ |archive-date=14 April 2019 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all |date=14 July 2015 }}</ref> Courts in [[Algeria]] have imposed fines and prison sentences for violations of Ramadan regulations.<ref>{{cite web |title=Algerians jailed for breaking Ramadan fast |url=http://www.alarabiya.net/articles/2008/10/07/57856.html |work=Al Arabiya News |date=7 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081211144838/http://www.alarabiya.net/articles/2008/10/07/57856.html |archive-date=11 December 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
 
 
 
Some countries impose modified work schedules. In the UAE, employees may work no more than six hours per day and thirty-six hours per week. [[Qatar]], [[Oman]], [[Bahrain]] and Kuwait have similar laws.<ref>[http://www.dlapiper.com/files/Publication/2cde821c-0999-49a7-a472-7b198caeb169/Presentation/PublicationAttachment/588752a7-2159-4538-8938-7da1610c0faa/DLA_Piper_Middle_East_Be_Alert_Ramadan.pdf Employment Issues During Ramadan&nbsp;– The Gulf Region]{{dead link|date=April 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}, DLA Piper Middle East.</ref>
 
 
 
  
 
=== Employment during Ramadan ===
 
=== Employment during Ramadan ===
Muslims continue to work during Ramadan;<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/ramadan-2019-important-muslims-190505145156499.html|title=Ramadan 2019: Why is it so important for Muslims?|website=www.aljazeera.com|access-date=2019-08-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tuc.org.uk/blogs/supporting-muslim-colleagues-during-ramadan|title=Supporting Muslim colleagues during Ramadan|last=Gilfillan_1|first=Scott|date=2019-05-03|website=TUC|language=en|access-date=2019-08-06}}</ref> however, in some Islamic countries, such as Oman and Lebanon, working hours are shortened.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://timesofoman.com/article/36340/Oman/-Ramadan-working-hours-announced-in-Oman |title= Ramadan working hours announced in Oman |work= Times of Oman |date= 22 June 2014 |access-date= 17 June 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160624185407/http://timesofoman.com/article/36340/Oman/-Ramadan-working-hours-announced-in-Oman |archive-date= 24 June 2016 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://timesofoman.com/article/53294/Ramadan/Ramadan-working-hours-for-muslims-working-during-the-Holy-Month-announced-for-public-and-private-sec |title= Ramadan working hours announced for public and private sectors |work= Times of Oman |date= 10 June 2015 |access-date= 17 June 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160624222635/http://timesofoman.com/article/53294/Ramadan/Ramadan-working-hours-for-muslims-working-during-the-Holy-Month-announced-for-public-and-private-sec |archive-date= 24 June 2016 |url-status= live |df= dmy-all }}</ref> It is often recommended that working Muslims inform their employers if they are fasting, given the potential for the observance to impact performance at work.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.workingmuslim.com/RamadanEmployeeGuide.pdf|title=The Working Muslim in Ramadan|publisher=Working Muslim|year=2011|access-date=30 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161007181131/http://www.workingmuslim.com/RamadanEmployeeGuide.pdf|archive-date=7 October 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The extent to which Ramadan observers are protected by [[reasonable accommodation|religious accommodation]] varies by country. Policies putting them at a disadvantage compared to other employees have been met with discrimination claims in the United Kingdom and the United States.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lewissilkinemployment.com/en-gb/insights-knowledge/insights-knowledge/a/knowledge/ramadan-employment-issues/|title=Lewis Silkin&nbsp;– Ramadan&nbsp;– employment issues|author=Lewis Silkin|date=26 April 2016|work=lewissilkinemployment.com|access-date=1 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803075543/http://www.lewissilkinemployment.com/en-gb/insights-knowledge/insights-knowledge/a/knowledge/ramadan-employment-issues/|archive-date=3 August 2016|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogs.findlaw.com/free_enterprise/2014/06/reasonable-accommodations-for-ramadan-lessons-from-2-eeoc-cases.html|title=Reasonable Accommodations for Ramadan? Lessons From 2 EEOC Cases|work=Free Enterprise|access-date=21 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707224349/http://blogs.findlaw.com/free_enterprise/2014/06/reasonable-accommodations-for-ramadan-lessons-from-2-eeoc-cases.html|archive-date=7 July 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/8-6-10a.cfm|title=EEOC And Electrolux Reach Settlement in Religious Accommodation Charge Brought By Muslim Employees|work=eeoc.gov|access-date=21 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150701194730/http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/8-6-10a.cfm|archive-date=1 July 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
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Muslims continue to work during Ramadan; however, in some Islamic countries, such as [[Oman]], [[Lebanon]], [[Bahrain]], and [[Kuwait]], working hours may be shortened. It is often recommended that working Muslims inform their employers if they are fasting, given the potential for the observance to impact performance at work.<ref>Saiyyidah Zaidi, [http://surreymuslims.org/gallery/ramadanemployerguide.pdf The Working Muslim in Ramadan] ''Working Muslim'', 2011. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref> The extent to which Ramadan observers are protected by [[reasonable accommodation|religious accommodation]] varies by country. Policies putting them at a disadvantage compared to other employees have been met with discrimination claims.<ref> Brett Snider, [https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/small-business/reasonable-accommodations-for-ramadan-lessons-from-2-eeoc-cases/ Reasonable Accommodations for Ramadan? Lessons From 2 EEOC Cases] ''FindLaw'', June 27, 2014. Retrieved May 3, 2022.</ref>
  
 
=== Health ===
 
=== Health ===
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Ramadan fasting is safe for healthy people, but those with medical conditions are advised to seek medical advice if they encounter health problems before or during fasting.
  
Ramadan fasting is safe for healthy people, but those with medical conditions should seek medical advice if they encounter health problems before or during fasting.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Azizi F |title=Islamic fasting and health |journal=Ann. Nutr. Metab. |volume=56 |issue=4 |pages=273–282 |year=2010 |pmid=20424438 |doi=10.1159/000295848 |url=}}</ref> The fasting period is usually associated with modest weight loss, but weight can return afterwards.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Sadeghirad B, Motaghipisheh S, Kolahdooz F, Zahedi MJ, Haghdoost AA |title=Islamic fasting and weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis |journal=Public Health Nutr |volume=17 |issue=2 |pages=396–406 |year=2014 |pmid=23182306 |doi=10.1017/S1368980012005046 |url=|doi-access=free }}</ref>
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Ramadan fasting can be potentially hazardous for [[pregnant]] women as it is associated with risks of inducing labor and causing [[gestational diabetes]]. It is permissible to not fast if it threatens the life of the woman or the child.
 
 
The education departments of [[Berlin]] and the [[United Kingdom]] have tried to discourage students from fasting during Ramadan, as they claim that not eating or drinking can lead to concentration problems and bad grades.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/2016/06/03/schools-say-muslim-students-should-break-ramadan-fast-to-avoid-b/|title=Schools say Muslim students 'should break Ramadan fast' to avoid bad grades|work=The Telegraph|access-date=25 June 2017|language=en-GB|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170520141538/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/2016/06/03/schools-say-muslim-students-should-break-ramadan-fast-to-avoid-b/|archive-date=20 May 2017|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Prof. Dr. E. Jürgen Zöllner|date=Summer 2017|title=Education in Berlin: Islam and School|url=http://www.tagesspiegel.de/downloads/1935352/3/.pdf|journal=Senatsverwaltung für Bildung, Wissenschaft und Forschung|access-date=25 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170712235725/http://www.tagesspiegel.de/downloads/1935352/3/.pdf|archive-date=12 July 2017|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
 
 
 
A review of the literature by an Iranian group suggested fasting during Ramadan might produce [[renal injury]] in patients with moderate (GFR <60 ml/min) or severe [[kidney disease]] but was not injurious to [[renal transplant]] patients with good function or most [[Kidney stone disease|stone-forming]] patients.<ref name="renal diseases mini review">{{cite journal | title=Ramadan fasting and patients with renal diseases: A mini review of the literature |vauthors=Emami-Naini A, Roomizadeh P, Baradaran A, Abedini A, Abtahi M | journal=J Res Med Sci |date=August 2013 | volume=18 | issue=8 | pages=711–716 | pmid=24379850 | issn=1735-1995 | publisher=Official Journal of [[Isfahan University of Medical Sciences]] | pmc=3872613}}</ref>
 
 
 
Ramadan fasting can be potentially hazardous for pregnant women as it is associated with risks of [[induced labour|inducing]] labour and causing [[gestational diabetes]], although it does not appear to affect the child's weight. It is permissible to not fast if it threatens the woman's or the child's lives.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Glazier |first1=JD |last2=Hayes |first2=DJL |last3=Hussain |first3=S |last4=D'Souza |first4=SW |last5=Whitcombe |first5=J |last6=Heazell |first6=AEP |last7=Ashton |first7=N |title=The effect of Ramadan fasting during pregnancy on perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. |journal=BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth |date=25 October 2018 |volume=18 |issue=1 |pages=421 |doi=10.1186/s12884-018-2048-y |pmid=30359228|pmc=6202808 }}</ref><ref>Islamic Studies Maldives</ref><ref name=preg>{{cite book |chapter=Chapter 22: Obesity, Polycystic Ovaries and Impaired Reproductive Outcome |vauthors=Balani J, Hyer S, Wagner M, Shehata H |publisher=Elsevier |doi=10.1016/B978-0-12-416045-3.00022-4 |pmid=30829975 |pages=289–298 |year=2019 |veditors=Mahmood T, Arulkumaran S |isbn=978-0-12-416045-3 |title=Obesity|journal=Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners |volume=31 |issue=9 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Mirghani |first1=HM |last2=Hamud |first2=OA |title=The effect of maternal diet restriction on pregnancy outcome. |journal=American Journal of Perinatology |date=January 2006 |volume=23 |issue=1 |pages=21–24 |doi=10.1055/s-2005-923435 |pmid=16450268}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Faris |first1=Mo'ez Al-Islam E. |last2=Al-Holy |first2=Murad A. |title=Implications of Ramadan intermittent fasting on maternal and fetal health and nutritional status: A review |journal=Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism |date=1 April 2014 |volume=7 |issue=2 |pages=107–118 |doi=10.3233/MNM-140011}}</ref>
 
  
 
== Notes ==
 
== Notes ==
{{Reflist|group = note}}
+
<references/>
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
 +
* Ad-Dausaree, Mahmood Bin Ahmad. ''The Magnificence of Quran''. Darussalam Publishers, 2015. ISBN 978-9960980119
 
* Aliyev, Rafig Y. ''Loud Thoughts on Religion: A Version of the System Study of Religion. Useful Lessons for Everybody''. Trafford Publishing, 2013. ISBN 978-1490705217
 
* Aliyev, Rafig Y. ''Loud Thoughts on Religion: A Version of the System Study of Religion. Useful Lessons for Everybody''. Trafford Publishing, 2013. ISBN 978-1490705217
* Clark, Malcolm. ''Islam For Dummies''. John Wiley & Sons, 2003. ISBN 978-0764555039
+
* Bombay Tract and Book Society. ''Life of Mohammed''. Wentworth Press, 2019. ISBN 978-0353880443)
 +
* Clark, Malcolm. ''Islam For Dummies''. John Wiley & Sons, 2019. ISBN 978-1119642978
 +
* Esposito, John L. ''The Oxford dictionary of Islam''. Oxford University Press, 2004. ISBN 978-0195125597
 +
* Heiligman, Deborah. ''Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with Praying, Fasting, and Charity''. National Geographic Children's Books, 2006. ISBN 978-0792259268
 +
* Hotaling, Ed. ''Islam Without Illusions: Its Past, Its Present, and Its Challenge for the Future''. Syracuse University Press, 2003. ISBN 0815607660
 +
* Robinson, Neal. ''Islam: A Concise Introduction''. Georgetown University Press, 1999. ISBN 978-0878402243
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
All links retrieved  
+
All links retrieved December 7, 2022.
  
 
* [http://www.ramadhan.org.uk/ Guide to Ramadhan]
 
* [http://www.ramadhan.org.uk/ Guide to Ramadhan]
 
* [https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan/ Celebrate Ramadan]
 
* [https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan/ Celebrate Ramadan]
 +
* [https://ing.org/resources/for-all-groups/calendar-of-important-islamic-dates/ramadan-information-sheet/ Ramadan Information Sheet]
 +
* [https://www.eatright.org/health/lifestyle/culture-and-traditions/ramadan—the-practice-of-fasting Ramadan The Practice of Fasting]
 +
* [https://www.bbc.com/news/explainers-56695447 What is Eid and when is it?]
  
  
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[[Category:Islam]]
 
[[Category:Islam]]
 
[[Category:Religion]]
 
[[Category:Religion]]
 
  
 
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{{Credits|Ramadan|954037912}}

Latest revision as of 00:32, 8 December 2022


Ramadan
رَمَضَان
Ramadan رَمَضَان
A crescent moon can be seen over palm trees at Manama, marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Ramadan in Bahrain.
Also called *Azerbaijani: Ramazan
  • Bengali: রমজান (Romzan)
  • Sorani Kurdish: ڕەمەزان‎ (Rehmehzan)
  • Persian: Ramazan
  • Turkish: Ramazan
Observed by Muslims
Type Religious
Begins At the last night of the month of Sha'ban[1]
Ends At the last night of the month of Ramadan[1]
Date Variable (follows the Islamic lunar calendar)[2]
Celebrations Community iftars and Community prayers
Observances
  • sawm (fasting)
  • zakat and sadaqah (alms giving)
  • taraweeh prayer (Sunni Muslims)
  • Commemorating Nights of al-Qadr (Shia and Sunni Muslims)
  • reading the Quran
  • abstaining from all bad deeds and staying humble
Related to Eid al-Fitr, Laylat al-Qadr

Ramadan (also spelled Ramzan, Ramadhan, or Ramathan) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting (sawm), prayer, reflection, and community. A commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation, the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next. Fasting from sunrise to sunset is fard (obligatory) for all adult Muslims in good health. Before the daily fast each day a predawn meal, referred to as Suhoor is eaten, and the fast is broken with a nightly feast called Iftar.

The spiritual rewards (thawab) of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also tobacco products, sexual relations, and sinful behavior, devoting themselves instead to salat (prayer) and recitation of the Quran. Ramadan also brings together the Muslim community, every evening for the iftar meal, and especially at the conclusion of the month with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Etymology

The word Ramadan originally "the hot month," derives from the Arabic root R-M-Ḍ (ramida) (ر-م-ض‎) "be burnt, scorched." [3] According to numerous hadiths, Ramadan is one of the names of God in Islam (the 99 Names of Allah, Beautiful Names of Allah) and as such it is prohibited to say only "Ramadan" in reference to the calendar month, and that it is necessary to say the "month of Ramadan."

History

Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a commemoration of Muhammad's first revelation. The annual observance of sawm (fasting during Ramadan) is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.[4][5]

Al-Baqara (Qu'ran, Chapter 2), Verse 185 in Arabic.

The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran; a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the criterion (of right and wrong). And whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or on a journey, a number of other days. Allah desires for you ease; He desires not hardship for you; and that you should complete the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that perhaps you may be thankful.[Quran 2:185]

Muslims hold that all scripture was revealed during Ramadan, the scrolls of Abraham, Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and Quran having been handed down on the first, sixth, twelfth, thirteenth (in some sources, eighteenth) and twenty-fourth Ramadans, respectively.[6] Muhammad is said to have received his first quranic revelation on Laylat al-Qadr, one of five odd-numbered nights that fall during the last ten days of Ramadan.[7]

Important dates

The first and last dates of Ramadan are determined by the lunar Islamic calendar.[2]

Beginning

Ramadan beginning dates between Gregorian years 1938 and 2038.

Because Hilāl, the crescent moon, typically occurs approximately one day after the new moon, the beginning of Ramadan can be estimated with some accuracy (see chart). The opening of Ramadan can be confirmed by direct visual observation of the crescent.[4]

Night of Power

Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) is considered the holiest night of the year.[8] It is, in Islamic belief, the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the prophet Muhammad. According to many Muslim sources, this was one of the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, traditionally believed to be the twenty-third night of Ramadan.[9] Since that time, Muslims have regarded the last ten nights of Ramadan as being especially blessed. The Night of Qadr comes with blessings and mercy of God in abundance, sins are forgiven, supplications are accepted, and that the annual decree is revealed to the angels, who carry it out according to God's plan.

Eid

The holiday of Eid al-Fitr (Arabic:عيد الفطر), which marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, the next lunar month, is declared after a crescent new moon has been sighted or after completion of thirty days of fasting if no sighting of the moon is possible. Also called the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," Eid al-Fitr celebrates of the return to a more natural disposition (fitra) of eating, drinking, and marital intimacy. It is forbidden to fast on the Day of Eid, and a specific prayer is nominated for this day.[10] As an obligatory act of charity, money is given to the poor and the needy before performing the Eid prayer. After the prayers, Muslims may visit their relatives, friends, and acquaintances or hold large communal celebrations in homes, community centers, or rented halls.

Religious practices

Ramadan with the poor people, Azim Azimzade, 1938

During the month of Ramadan the common practice is to fast from dawn to sunset.

Muslims also devote more time to prayer and acts of charity, striving to improve their self-discipline.

Fasting

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam. The fast (sawm) begins at dawn and ends at sunset. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan is an opportunity to practice self-discipline, self-control,[11] sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate, thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (zakat).[12]

Exemptions to fasting include travel, menstruation, severe illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Muslims with medical conditions are recommended not to fast, although those unable to fast due to travel of temporary sickness are obligated make up the missed days later.[13]

Suhoor

Each day before dawn, Muslims observe a pre-fast meal called the suhoor ("pre-dawn meal"). Sahur is regarded by Islamic traditions as a benefit of the blessings in that it allows the person fasting to avoid the crankiness or weakness caused by the fast. According to a hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari, Anas ibn Malik narrated, "The Prophet said, 'take sahur as there is a blessing in it.'"[14]

After the meal, and still before dawn, Muslims begin the first prayer of the day, Fajr.[15]

Iftar

Preparing for Iftar at Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey

At sunset, families break the fast with the iftar, traditionally opening the meal by eating dates to commemorate Muhammad's practice of breaking the fast with three dates.[16] They then adjourn for Maghrib, the fourth of the five required daily prayers, after which the main meal is served.[17]

Social gatherings, with the food many times served in buffet style, are frequent at iftar. Traditional dishes are often highlighted. Water is usually the beverage of choice, but juice and milk are also often available, as are soft drinks and caffeinated beverages.[18]

In the Middle East, iftar consists of water, juices, dates, salads, and appetizers; one or more main dishes; and rich desserts, with dessert considered the most important aspect of the meal.[19] Typical main dishes include lamb stewed with wheat berries, lamb kebabs with grilled vegetables, and roasted chicken served with chickpea-studded rice pilaf. Desserts may include luqaimat, baklava, or kunafeh.[20]

Iftar at the Imam Reza shrine

Over time, the practice of iftar has involved into banquets that may accommodate hundreds or even thousands of diners. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the largest mosque in the UAE, feeds up to thirty thousand people every night.[21] Some twelve thousand people attend iftar every night at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad.[22]

Nightly prayers

Men praying during Ramadan at the Shrine of Ali or "Blue Mosque" in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan

Tarawih (Arabic: تراويح) literally "rest and relaxation," are extra nightly prayers performed during the month of Ramadan. It may involve reading one Juz' (Arabic: جُزْء, or section of the Quran. Unlike the five daily salat ritual prayers which are fard (obligatory) under Islamic law, tarawih prayers are considered optional (sunnah “habitual practice”).[23]

Recitation of the Quran

Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Quran, which comprises thirty juz' (sections), over the thirty days of Ramadan. Some Muslims incorporate a recitation of one juz' into each of the thirty tarawih sessions observed during the month.[24]

Zakat al-Fitr

Zakat al-Fitr or Sadaqat al-Fitr is a charitable obligation, mandatory for all Muslims — male or female, minor or adult as long as they have the means to do so — that is traditionally paid before the end of Ramadan.[25] The collected amount is used to pay the zakat collectors and to the poor so that they may be provided with a means to celebrate Eid al-Fitr (the festival of breaking the fast) following Ramadan.

Zakat al-Fitr, the special contribution during Ramadan, is a fixed amount assessed per person, while Zakat, or Zakat al-mal ("zakat on wealth"), one of the Five Pillars of Islam, zakat is a religious duty for all Muslims, is based on personal income and property.

Cultural practices

In some Islamic countries, lights are strung up in public squares and across city streets, a tradition believed to have originated during the Fatimid Caliphate, where the rule of Caliph al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah was acclaimed by people holding lanterns.[26]

In Indonesia, the iftar meal is announced every evening by striking the bedug, a giant drum, in the mosque. The bedug is also part of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations at the end of Ramadan. Starting on the evening of the last day of Ramadan and continuing throughout the night and into the following day, the bedug are beaten for the Takbiran prayers and during parades and celebrations of Eid al-Fitr.[27] On the island of Java, many believers bathe in holy springs to prepare for fasting, a ritual known as Padusan.[28] In the Chinese-influenced capital city of Jakarta, firecrackers are widely used to celebrate Ramadan, although they are officially illegal.[29] Certain kinds of food are especially popular during Ramadan, such as large beef or buffalo in Aceh and snails in Central Java.[30]

During Ramadan in countries in the Middle East, such as Egypt, Syria, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Pakistan, and Palestine, a Mesaharati beats a drum to wake people up to eat the suhoor meal and dawn prayer.[31] Similarly, in Indonesia and nearby countries in Southeast Asia, a slit drum known as a kentongan is used to wake households up for the pre-dawn meal.

Striking the bedug in Indonesia
Striking the bedug in Indonesia  
The statue of the crescent in one of the squares was decorated in color and beautifully lit to celebrate the month of Ramadan in Jordan
The statue of the crescent in one of the squares was decorated in color and beautifully lit to celebrate the month of Ramadan in Jordan  
Ramadan in the Old City of Jerusalem
Ramadan in the Old City of Jerusalem  
Ramadan lanterns in Cairo, Egypt
Ramadan lanterns in Cairo, Egypt  

Observance

Fasting from sunrise to sunset is fard (obligatory) for all adult Muslims who are not acutely or chronically ill, traveling, elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, or menstruating. A predawn meal, suhoor, and nightly feast, iftar, that breaks the fast, are part of the schedule of fasting. There is widespread observance, with the majority (over 90 percent) of Muslims reporting that they fast during Ramadan.[32]

The spiritual rewards (thawab) of fasting are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. Accordingly, Muslims refrain not only from food and drink, but also tobacco products, sexual relations, and sinful behavior,[33] devoting themselves instead to salat (prayer), recitation of the Quran, and the performance of charitable deeds.

Ramadan in polar regions

The length of the dawn to sunset time varies in different parts of the world according to summer or winter solstices of the Sun. Most Muslims fast for eleven to sixteen hours during Ramadan. However, in polar regions, the period between dawn and sunset may exceed twenty-two hours in summer. For example, in 2014, Muslims in Reykjavik, Iceland, and Trondheim, Norway, fasted almost twenty-two hours, while Muslims in Sydney, Australia, fasted for only about eleven hours. In areas characterized by continuous night or day, some Muslims follow the fasting schedule observed in the nearest city that experiences sunrise and sunset, while others follow Mecca time.[34]

Ramadan in Earth orbit

Muslim astronauts in space schedule religious practices around the time zone of their last location on Earth. For example, an astronaut from Malaysia launching from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida would align their fast according to sunrise and sunset in Eastern Standard Time. This includes times for daily prayers, as well as sunset and sunrise for Ramadan.[35] Astronauts may also delay their Ramadan observance until they return to earth, if this is more practical.

Employment during Ramadan

Muslims continue to work during Ramadan; however, in some Islamic countries, such as Oman, Lebanon, Bahrain, and Kuwait, working hours may be shortened. It is often recommended that working Muslims inform their employers if they are fasting, given the potential for the observance to impact performance at work.[36] The extent to which Ramadan observers are protected by religious accommodation varies by country. Policies putting them at a disadvantage compared to other employees have been met with discrimination claims.[37]

Health

Ramadan fasting is safe for healthy people, but those with medical conditions are advised to seek medical advice if they encounter health problems before or during fasting.

Ramadan fasting can be potentially hazardous for pregnant women as it is associated with risks of inducing labor and causing gestational diabetes. It is permissible to not fast if it threatens the life of the woman or the child.

Notes

  1. 1.0 1.1 Malcolm Clark, Islam For Dummies (John Wiley & Sons, 2019, ISBN 978-1119642978).
  2. 2.0 2.1 Ramadan 2022 Calendar Date. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  3. Ramadan Etymology Online. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  4. 4.0 4.1 AbdAllah-Muhammad Bukhari-Ibn-Ismail, Sahih Bukhari – Book 031 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 124 Hadith Collection. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  5. Abul-Hussain Muslim-Ibn-Habaj, Sahih Muslim – Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2378 Hadith Collection. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  6. Rafig Y. Aliyev, Loud Thoughts on Religion (Trafford Publishing, 2013, ISBN 978-1490705217).
  7. Mahmood Bin Ahmad Ad-Dausaree, The Magnificence of Quran (Darussalam Publishers, 2015, ISBN 978-9960980119).
  8. Neal Robinson, Islam: A Concise Introduction (Georgetown University Press, 1999, ISBN 978-0878402243).
  9. Bombay Tract and Book Society, Life of Mohammed (Wentworth Press, 2019, ISBN 978-0353880443).
  10. Deborah Heiligman, Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with Praying, Fasting, and Charity (National Geographic Children's Books, 2006, ISBN 978-0792259268).
  11. Adam Yosef, Why Ramadan brings us together BBC, August 25, 2009. Retrieved May 2, 20203, 2022.
  12. Thomas Erdbrink, Help for the Heavy at Ramadan Washington Post, September 28, 2008. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  13. Quran 2:184
  14. Bukhari: Book 3: Vol. 31: Hadith 146 (Fasting).
  15. Abul-Hussain Muslim-Ibn-Habaj, Sahih Muslim – Book 006 (The Book of Fasting), Hadith 2415 Hadith Collection. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  16. John L. Esposito, The Oxford dictionary of Islam (Oxford University Press, 2004, ISBN 978-0195125597).
  17. Melissa Fletcher Stoeltje, Muslims fast and feast as Ramadan begins San Antonio Express-News, August 22, 2009. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  18. Nour El-Zibdeh, Understanding Muslim Fasting Practices Today's Dietitian, 11(8) (August 2009): 56. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  19. Darra Goldstein (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Sugar and Sweets (Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0199313396).
  20. Faye and Yakir Levy, Ramadan's high note is often a dip Los Angeles Times, July 21, 2012. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  21. Abu Dhabi's Grand Mosque feeds 30,000 during Ramadan Euro News, May 10, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  22. Gisoo Misha Ahmadi, Iran's Mashhad hosts biggest "Iftar" in world Iran Mirror, June 15, 2016. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  23. Shaykh Furhan Zubairi, Guidance For Praying Tarawih At Home Muslim Matters. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  24. Huda, All About Ramadan, Islam's Holy Month Learn Religions, April 8, 2021. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  25. Sadaqat-ul-Fitr Hidaya Foundation. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  26. Noura Anwar, Two Cultural Symbols of Ramadan: Lantern and Qatayef Arab America, June 7, 2017. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  27. Ramadan and Lebaran in Indonesia Living in Indonesia, November 7, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  28. This Is How Indonesia Welcomes Ramadan Jakarta Globe, May 4, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  29. Calvin Sims, Jakarta Journal; It's Ramadan. School Is Out. Quick, the Earplugs! The New York Times, December 19, 2000. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  30. Agus Maryono and Severianus Endi, On the hunt for delectable snacks The Jakarta Post, July 7, 2014. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  31. Jihad Abaza, Meet Cairo’s mesaharati: The spirit of Ramadan beats to a woman’s drums Middle East Eye, June 11, 2018. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  32. Fatima Ghani, Most Muslims say they fast during Ramadan Pew Research Center, July 9, 2013. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  33. Ed Hotaling, Islam Without Illusions: Its Past, Its Present, and Its Challenge for the Future (Syracuse University Press, 2003, ISBN 0815607660).
  34. Ashifa Kassam, Arctic Ramadan: fasting in land of midnight sun comes with a challenge The Guardian, July 3, 2016. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  35. Rachel Donadio, Interstellar Ramadan The New York Times Magazine, December 9, 2007. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  36. Saiyyidah Zaidi, The Working Muslim in Ramadan Working Muslim, 2011. Retrieved May 3, 2022.
  37. Brett Snider, Reasonable Accommodations for Ramadan? Lessons From 2 EEOC Cases FindLaw, June 27, 2014. Retrieved May 3, 2022.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Ad-Dausaree, Mahmood Bin Ahmad. The Magnificence of Quran. Darussalam Publishers, 2015. ISBN 978-9960980119
  • Aliyev, Rafig Y. Loud Thoughts on Religion: A Version of the System Study of Religion. Useful Lessons for Everybody. Trafford Publishing, 2013. ISBN 978-1490705217
  • Bombay Tract and Book Society. Life of Mohammed. Wentworth Press, 2019. ISBN 978-0353880443)
  • Clark, Malcolm. Islam For Dummies. John Wiley & Sons, 2019. ISBN 978-1119642978
  • Esposito, John L. The Oxford dictionary of Islam. Oxford University Press, 2004. ISBN 978-0195125597
  • Heiligman, Deborah. Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with Praying, Fasting, and Charity. National Geographic Children's Books, 2006. ISBN 978-0792259268
  • Hotaling, Ed. Islam Without Illusions: Its Past, Its Present, and Its Challenge for the Future. Syracuse University Press, 2003. ISBN 0815607660
  • Robinson, Neal. Islam: A Concise Introduction. Georgetown University Press, 1999. ISBN 978-0878402243

External links

All links retrieved December 7, 2022.

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