WHEN IS RAMADAN? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month cycles through the seasons. The start of the month traditionally depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, the first day is expected to be on or around March 1. Ramadan, in Islam, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon. Islamic tradition states that it was during Ramadan that the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran. The purpose of fasting from dawn to dusk is to grow closer to God and to restore the centrality of God in one’s life, according to the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research, a nonprofit based in Texas. What is the purpose of Ramadan? Ramadan is a time of deep reflection, self-improvement and heightened devotion to God. Ramadan is the time for Muslims to learn to control themselves and to develop their spiritual side. Basically, Muslims try to have a pre-dawn meal, known as sahur, before they begin fasting. The fast lasts from dawn to sunset. As soon as the sun has set, Muslims break their fast without delay. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month cycles through the seasons. The start of the month traditionally depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar during which the Holy Quran was sent down to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this time, Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset, a command given to Muslims in the Quran itself, instructing believers to observe fasting as an act of devotion and self-discipline. Ramadan is that month for over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a sacred period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. From dawn to sunset, Muslims refrain from food, drink, and sexual relations to focus on spiritual growth and self-discipline. Muslims observe Ramadan by abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual intimacy—all out of devotion to their Creator. They are also called to practice self-restraint and respond to every situation with patience and kindness. Every year, as the blessed month of Ramadan draws near, Muslims around the world await in joyous anticipation for the opportunity to observe fasting— the fourth of five foundational pillars of the Islamic faith. The opportune arrival of Ramadan each year sparks an interest and awareness that gives rise to several questions— what exactly is fasting? Ramadan, a holy month of fasting in Islam, begins this weekend, and asks Muslims to give thanks to God for the sustenance the Earth provides. Therefore, the purpose of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan isn’t to keep one thirsty or hungry but to bring inner peace. Fasting in Ramadan is meant to instil the virtuous quality of shielding us from the evils of the world and righteously purifying our character with patience and generosity. It’s a month of sharing and if you can help even a single person out, the purpose of Ramadan is fulfilled. So while fasting is the basis of the month of Ramadan, the spirit of Ramadan is much more than the mechanical act of abstaining from food and other desires. The timing of Ramadan shifts by about 10–12 days each year, allowing Muslims to experience fasting in different seasons over time. Although the start date may differ slightly between regions, the core practices of Ramadan are observed universally. The Duration and Purpose of Fasting Ramadan is a lunar month on the Islamic calendar. It does not coincide with the solar Gregorian calendar used throughout the world, since the lunar year is slightly shorter than the solar year. What Is The Purpose & Goal Of Fasting In Ramadan. Ramadan is a training camp for the spiritual development of Muslims. Allah SWT has made fasting in Ramadan mandatory for Muslims because He wants them to purify their souls and get closer to Him. In the Holy Quran, Allah SWT describes the purpose of Ramadan fasts in these words. What is the main purpose of Ramadan? During Ramadan, Muslims aim to grow spiritually and become closer to Allah and their loved ones. They do this by abstaining from eating and other pleasures like smoking, drinking and sexual intercourse between sunrise and sunset each day. What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the holiest periods of worship. Muslims will fast from dawn to dusk - and are expected to abstain from 3. “Ramadan is the Same Everywhere” Ramadan’s timing and practices can vary depending on location and culture. For example, in countries with long daylight hours, Muslims may fast for 18-20 hours a day, while in others, the fast may be shorter. 4. “Ramadan is Just for Muslims” Why do Muslims do Ramadan? Muslims observe Ramadan as a commandment from Allah (SWT). It is a month of spiritual purification, reflection and devotion. What is the purpose of Ramadan? The purpose of Ramadan is to draw closer to Allah (SWT), increase piety, seek forgiveness, and grow spiritually while appreciating blessings and practicing charity. Exploring “What is the purpose of Ramadan?” reveals how it nurtures a discipline of regular prayer, Quranic study, and reflection, encouraging Muslims to sustain these practices year-round. The elevated devotion and connection to Allah experienced during Ramadan set a spiritual benchmark for personal growth and piety.
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