For the past three weeks or so, Muslims around the world have been observing Ramadan. While many have heard of Ramadan, not everyone knows its deeper meaning. This holy month, which began the evening of Feb. 17 and is expected to end March 18, is far more than abstaining from food and drink — it is a time to nourish the soul, strengthen faith and embrace compassion, kindness and generosity toward all. Ramadan invites us to pause, reflect and grow, transforming self-discipline into a celebration of spiritual renewal
Did you know Ramadan is observed as the holiest month in Islam because it commemorates the first revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad? Muslims believe the Qur’an was first revealed during the “Night of Power” (Laylat al-Qadr), described as “better than a thousand months.” Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and its timing shifts about 10–11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar due to the lunar cycle.
According to John L. Esposito, fasting during this month is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a core act of worship for Muslims worldwide. The spiritual significance of Ramadan centers on deepening one’s relationship with God through prayer, reflection and recitation of the Qur’an.
Did you know fasting in Ramadan is required for all healthy adult Muslims from dawn to sunset? The Qur’an instructs believers to fast so that they may develop self-restraint and God-consciousness (taqwa). During the fast, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking and marital relations during daylight hours. However, the Qur’an notes that exemptions are granted to those who are ill, traveling, elderly, pregnant, nursing or menstruating, with options to make up missed fasts later or provide charity. According to Sahih al-Bukhari, the fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar, traditionally beginning with dates and water, following the example (Sunnah) of the Prophet Muhammad.
Did you know Ramadan is also a month strongly associated with charity, community, and generosity? In addition to personal fasting, Muslims are encouraged to increase acts of kindness and give to those in need. Abdulaziz Sachedina notes that one important form of charity is Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory donation given before the end of Ramadan to ensure that even the less fortunate can celebrate the festival of Eid al-Fitr.
Mosques often host communal prayers and nightly gatherings called Taraweeh, fostering a sense of unity among worshippers. Through spiritual discipline, compassion and community engagement, Ramadan becomes not only a time of abstinence but also one of renewal and shared humanity.
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