The Month of Ramadan

Ramadan (رَمَضَان) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the most blessed month of the year. It is the month in which the Quran was revealed, and Muslims worldwide observe fasting (sawm) from dawn until sunset. Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal, increased worship, and drawing closer to Allah.

Quranic Foundation

"The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)

Fasting (صوم) Fasting means abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from the break of dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). It is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for every adult Muslim who is able. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven."

Suhoor and Iftar Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before Fajr. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Take suhoor, for in suhoor there is blessing." Iftar is the meal at sunset that breaks the fast. The Prophet would break his fast with dates and water, saying:

"The thirst has gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills."

Laylat al-Qadr (لیلة القدر) The Night of Decree—better than a thousand months. The Quran was first revealed on this night. It falls on one of the odd nights in the last ten days of Ramadan (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever stands in prayer on Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven."

"Indeed, We sent it down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months." (97:1-3)

Tarawih (تراویح) The night prayers performed during Ramadan, typically in congregation after Isha. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever stands in prayer with the imam until he finishes, it will be recorded for him as if he prayed the whole night."

Key Practices Increase in Quran recitation, charity (sadaqah), and dhikr. Avoid backbiting, lying, and anger. The Prophet said: "Fasting is a shield. When one of you is fasting, he should not speak obscenely or raise his voice. If someone insults him or fights him, let him say: 'I am fasting.'"

The Gates of Paradise The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "When Ramadan enters, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained." It is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and salvation—a chance to reset and draw closer to Allah.