Ramadan likely to fall on May 17
What is Ramadan all about?
Ramadan is regarded as the holiest month of the year for Muslims as it was the month in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) on the night of Laylat Al Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
'The month of Ramadan (is that) in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and the clear proof for guidance and criterion. So whoever sights (the new moon of) the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and doesn't intend for you hardship and wants for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that (to) which He has guided you: and perhaps you will be grateful.' Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185
Ramadan 2018: Dos and don'ts for non-Muslims
The annual observance of Ramadan is considered one of the 'Five Pillars of Islam'.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri (Islamic) calendar. This year, according to the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan may start on on May 16 or 17.
How long does it last?
Ramadan lasts for one complete moon cycle, which is usually 29 or 30 days. The moon sighting determines the duration. Nowadays, astronomical calculations have started taking precedence over the age-old tradition of moon sighting by the naked eye to determine the dates.
How do we know exactly when it starts?
A moon-sighting committee in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, will make an official announcement.
Dh10,000 fine for erecting Ramadan tents without a permit
Why Saudi Arabia?
Makkah is considered the holiest city in Islam. Not only was it the birthplace of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), but also the location where Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) had his first revelation of the Quran. Because of this, the rest of the Islamic world follow Saudi Arabia’s announcement.
UAE government timings for Ramadan
How do you greet each other?
Greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem”. This roughly translates into “Happy Ramadan”.
Take the greetings online by using the hashtag #RamadanKareem
How do Muslims observe Ramadan?
Adult Muslims are required to fast from dawn to dusk every day throughout Ramadan. Those who are ill, elderly, diabetic, pregnant, menstruating, or breast-feeding are not required to fast. Those who travel or are unwell during the period of Ramadan may fast on different days at a later point. Children are not required to fast unless they have reached puberty, although many still do out of choice.
In addition to abstaining from eating, drinking, and smoking, Muslims also refrain from sexual relations as well as sinful speech and behaviour.
During Ramadan, Muslims pray every night for 30 days, reciting different chapters each day until the Quran is completed by Eid Al Fitr. This is called the Taraweeh prayer, which is recited after Isha prayers mid-evening.
Ramadan sharing fridges are back in Dubai. All you need to know
Why a fast?
Fasting redirects the heart away from distractions, with its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from impurities. Ramadan is also a time for Muslims to practice self-discipline, sacrifice, and empathy for those less fortunate. It encourages generosity and charity.
When do Muslims break their fast?
Fast may be broken at sunset before Maghrib prayers after ‘Azaan’ (call for prayers). This occurs just after sunset. Dates are traditionally the first food to be eaten each evening. The fast-breaking meal is called Iftar.
When does fasting start?
Each morning before sunrise, Muslims engage in a pre-fast meal called 'suhour'. Afterwards, they start with the Fajr prayers.
...[ Continue to next page ]
Share This Post
