Key Points

Overview

Ramadan lasts 29–30 days and begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. Differences in regional moon sightings can lead to variations in start dates.

Key practices include:

The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival celebrating the completion of fasting.

Variations in Moon Sighting

The start of Ramadan varies by region, depending on:
- Local moon sightings (traditional method).
- Astronomical calculations (scientific approach).
- Following a central authority (e.g., Saudi Arabia).

This sometimes leads to differences in fasting start and end dates among Muslim communities.

Fasting and Religious Practices

Historical Background

  • Revelation of the Quran: Ramadan is believed to be the month when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad on Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power).
  • Early Islamic practice: Initially, fasting was optional, but it became mandatory in the second year of Hijra (622 CE).
  • Continuation of past traditions: Fasting exists in other religious traditions, including Jewish fasting (e.g., Yom Kippur) and Christian fasting (e.g., Lent).

Quranic References

Surah 2:183
“O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint,-”

Surah 2:184
“(Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will,- it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if ye only knew.”

The timing of Ramadan is based on moon sighting, leading to regional variations in its start and end dates.

Definitions and Distinctions

Fasting (sawm) in Ramadan involves abstaining from:
- Food and drink (including water).
- Smoking.
- Sexual activity.

It also emphasises moral discipline, encouraging:
- Avoiding negative behaviour (e.g., gossiping, lying).
- Controlling anger and desires to develop self-restraint.

Common Ramadan meals include:
- Suhur (pre-dawn meal).
- Iftar (meal to break the fast, traditionally with dates).

Some modern Muslims extend fasting beyond food to social media or entertainment, adapting the practice to self-discipline goals.

Fasting Rules

Who Must Fast?

  • Obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims.
  • Exemptions include:
    • Children.
    • The elderly.
    • Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
    • Menstruating women (forbidden to fast and must make up later).
    • Travellers.
    • Those with illnesses.

Timing of the Fast

  • From dawn (fajr) to sunset (maghrib).
  • In regions with long daylight (e.g., Scandinavia), some follow Mecca’s fasting times.

Breaking the Fast (Iftar)

  • Unintentional breaking (e.g., forgetfulness) does not invalidate the fast.
  • Intentional breaking (e.g., eating, drinking) requires:
    • Making up the fast later (qada).
    • Charity (fidyah) for permanent exemptions.
    • Severe cases require kaffarah (fasting 60 days or feeding 60 people).

Spiritual Significance

Practical Considerations

Health Effects

  • Potential benefits:
    • Weight loss.
    • Improved metabolism.
    • Detoxification.
    • Increased insulin sensitivity.
  • Challenges:
    • Managing fasting with medical conditions (e.g., diabetes).
    • Adjusting work and sleep schedules.

Daily Routine Adjustments

  • Workplace accommodations: Some employers allow flexible hours.
  • Economic impact: Increased spending on food, charity, and religious donations.

Denominational Variations

Most Islamic sects agree on fasting rules, with minor differences:
- Taraweeh prayers: Sunnis typically pray 20 rakats, while some Shiites pray 8–12 rakats.
- Moon sighting methods: Some follow local sighting, others Saudi Arabia’s declaration.
- Minority sects (e.g., Druze, Alevis) have different fasting practices.

Modern Adaptations and Challenges

Common Challenges

  • Balancing work and fasting (especially in non-Muslim-majority countries).
  • Navigating societal expectations where fasting is less understood.
  • Handling long fasting hours in regions with extended daylight.

Conclusion

Ramadan is a deeply spiritual and communal experience for Muslims worldwide. While moon sighting variations lead to different start dates, the core practices remain universal.

Despite modern challenges, Muslims adapt while maintaining their spiritual devotion, reinforcing the timeless values of faith, self-discipline, and community.