Ramadan Mubarak to our OP Muslim community!

On 13/3/2024, A billion Muslims around the world will begin celebrating Ramadan - this is done with fasting from dawn till sunset for the month, reciting verses from the Quran, and attending prayer sessions.  Here are some FAQ about Ramadan for those who wish to know a little more:

When is Ramadan?

Ramadan begins during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar when the new crescent moon is first sighted. The exact start date of Ramadan is confirmed when the moon is spotted by a sighting committee, often made up of government officials and religious scholars.

What is Ramadan and how is it observed?

Ramadan is observed by to commemorate when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. 

Muslims mark the holy month by fasting—considered to be one of the five pillars of Islam—during sunlight hours. The pre-dawn meal is called the suhoor, while the fast is broken at dusk with the iftar, traditionally starting with a few sips of water and some dates.

How do you wish someone a Happy Ramadan?

 “Ramadan Mubarak,” which roughly translates into “Happy Ramadan.”

On the last day of Ramadan, which is Eid-al-fitr, the greeting changes to “Eid Mubarak.”

Does everyone have to fast?

Not everyone must fast. Islam prescribes that all able-bodied Muslims should fast during Ramadan but exempts young children, expecting and breast-feeding mothers, women who are menstruating, the elderly, and those with health conditions.

How long is Ramadan fasting?

The length of daily fasts during Ramadan depends on where you live and when the sun rises and sets. It can be as short as 12 hours in southern countries like New Zealand or as long as 18 hours, in places like Iceland.

Ramadan starts about 10 to 12 days earlier each year because it is tied to the Islamic calendar, which relies on a lunar calendar in which months are 29 or 30 days long.

Information from How to Wish Someone a Happy Ramadan