Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer, and reflection, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad.
Because it follows a lunar rather than solar calendar, this month-long observance gradually drifts earlier each year, cycling through every season over roughly three decades.
A Month of Fasting
During Ramadan, observant Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining entirely from food, drink, and other physical needs, as an act of spiritual discipline, self-restraint, and heightened devotion to God, fulfilling one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Commemorating Revelation
The month is chosen to commemorate the belief that the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during this period, making it the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and a time of particular focus on spiritual reflection and Quranic study.
Daily Rhythms of Ramadan
Each day's fast is broken at sunset with a meal known as iftar, traditionally shared with family and community and often beginning with dates, in accordance with a practice attributed to the Prophet Muhammad, while a pre-dawn meal called suhoor is eaten before the daily fast resumes.
A Lunar, Shifting Observance
Because Ramadan follows the lunar Islamic calendar, which is roughly 11 days shorter than the solar calendar, the month gradually shifts earlier each year, meaning it cycles through all four seasons over roughly a 33-year period.
Eid al-Fitr
Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, meaning "Festival of the Breaking of the Fast," a joyous celebration marked by communal prayer, festive meals, new clothing, and gift-giving, observed by over a billion Muslims worldwide.
