What is Ramadan?

Ramadan (also spelled Ramazan, Ramzan, or Ramadhan) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a sacred time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Each day, fasting begins at dawn and ends at sunset, requiring abstinence from food and drink. It is a deeply spiritual period, marked by gatherings for prayer, special meals, and increased acts of charity. As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Ramadan lasts 29 to 30 days, depending on the lunar calendar.

Beyond fasting from dawn to dusk, Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth and self-improvement. Muslims devote themselves to increased recitation of the Quran, extra nightly prayers known as Taraweeh, and acts of kindness and generosity. The final ten nights hold special significance, with many dedicating this time to intense prayer, sometimes even staying in mosques overnight in a practice known as i'tikaf.

Suhoor (also spelled Sahūr or Suhūr and sometimes called Sehri) is the pre-dawn meal consumed before beginning the daily fast. It is eaten before the Fajr (dawn) prayer and provides essential nourishment for the day ahead.

Iftar is the evening meal that breaks the daily fast at sunset, just before the Maghrib prayer. Traditionally, Muslims break their fast with dates and water, followed by a full meal shared with family, friends, and the community.

The word Eid means "festival" or "celebration," and there are two major Eids in the Islamic calendar:

• Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a joyous occasion of gratitude and togetherness. Muslims gather for special morning prayers, visit loved ones, and share festive meals.
• Eid al-Adha, known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," takes place after the Hajj pilgrimage in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God and is observed with prayers, feasts, and acts of charity.