RAMADAN is the holiest month on the Islamic calendar, where worshipers fast for a month.
Here, we look at why they fast and what it represents.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims are obliged to abstain from eating or drinking during daylight hours.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, and is expected that Muslims observe this period once they have reached puberty.
There are some exceptions, however, such as women who are menstruating or pregnant and those suffering from illness.
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As well as fasting, Muslims should also abstain from bad habits, such as foul language and smoking.
Sexual relations are also banned during the hours of fasting.
It is believed that abstaining from these outlined activities will lead to greater “taqwa”, or consciousness of God.
Muslims are encouraged to pray five times a day during this period.
When was fasting introduced during Ramadan?
According to the Quran, Prophet Muhammad said Islam is built upon five pillars and fasting was one of them in the 7th century.
When this starts, millions of people abstain from eating and drinking between dawn and sundown during Ramadan.
Fasting will begin at sunrise after suhur and then finish at sunset with iftar.
If a fast is broken, it will need to be compensated for by fasting at a later date, or instead, one may pay “fidyah”, a religious term for a donation of food or money.
According to the Islamic tradition, when someone cannot fast during Ramadan and cannot make up the lost days, then they should pay fidyah.
This means to pay for someone else to be fed.
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How do you say 'Happy Ramadan'?
Ramadan Mubarak is the most well-known phrase to wish someone a happy Ramadan.
The direct translation is "blessed Ramadan".
Ramadan Kareem is an alternative greeting, meaning "Have a generous Ramadan".
Often, in response to Ramadan Kareem, people say "Allah Akram" which translates to "God is more generous".
When does Ramadan end this year?
In 2024, Ramadan begins on the evening of Sunday, March 10.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the blessed month of Ramadan.
This year, it is expected to be celebrated on April 9.