Every year, the Muslim community around the world celebrates Ramadan, one of the most important holidays in Islam. In 2022, it began in April, although it's worth noting that the exact dates vary, as they largely depend on the lunar cycle. In today's post, we'll discuss what Ramadan is , when it's celebrated, the rules followed, and many other interesting facts about this observance.
The month in which Ramadan begins is a very special time for millions of people who follow a series of guidelines that unite faith with the traditions of their culture. The sighting of the crescent moon marks the first official day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and for them, the holiest.
Knowing the origin of Ramadan
First of all, we want to point out that the start of Ramadan, as we mentioned earlier, changes every year because the Islamic lunar calendar takes into account the phases of the moon. Both its beginning and end will be marked by the sighting of the moon in Saudi Arabia.
The origin of this celebration was already part of the ancient Arab calendars found throughout history. The name comes from the Arabic root "ar-ramad," which means "scorching heat."
The Muslim community recounts and believes that in 610 CE, the angel Gabriel appeared to their prophet, Muhammad, to reveal the Quran to him. For those unfamiliar with the Quran, it is the holy book for followers of Islam. This appearance and revelation, as we have described, is believed to have taken place during Ramadan.
This sacred book we have discussed has a total of 144 chapters. These written documents are believed to be the direct words spoken by God or Allah. Other types of writings accompany the Quran, such as thoughts or words spoken by its prophet Muhammad.
When is Ramadan celebrated?
When the month of Ramadan begins for Muslims, it is not simply a time of fasting. For the vast majority, it is a period of heightened spirituality, a time for reflection, prayer, and the sacrifice of abstaining from food. These acts are a way to renew their faith and draw closer to God, Allah.
In addition to what we've already mentioned, it's also a time when families gather and celebrate , as this period strengthens family ties, friendships, and especially the bonds with the Muslim community. There are five main pillars of Islam, which are obligatory: faith, prayer, sharing wealth with those in need, the pilgrimage to Mecca, and Ramadan.
As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, Ramadan is celebrated in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar , which, as we've said, varies according to the lunar cycle. This year it was celebrated in April and May.
What is Ramadan about?
During the weeks of Ramadan, the Muslim community not only experiences spiritual growth, but also strengthens their relationship with God. To observe Ramadan correctly, a series of guidelines must be strictly followed.
Fasting must be observed between sunrise and sunset; this is obligatory for all Muslims . Those who are ill, pregnant, elderly, or minors are exempt. The fast must be strict, meaning that not even water may be consumed during this period until sunset.
The moments when they can sit down at the table and eat are an opportunity for all family members to come together and break their fast together.
When Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims celebrate with Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast , which begins with prayers at dawn. During the days of this festival, those who observe Ramadan gather for prayer, meals, exchange gifts, and pay their respects to those who have passed away.
One thing that is undeniable is the feeling and tradition that the Muslim community puts into this very special moment for them.
What is eaten in Ramadan?
During Ramadan, two different meals take place: suhoor and iftar . Suhoor is eaten before sunrise. It's a feast to stave off hunger throughout the day. It's advisable to eat suhoor several hours before dawn. Dishes containing protein, sugars, or other filling foods are typically prepared at this time, as it will be the last meal of the day.
After sunset, the second meal, Iftar, begins. This is usually divided into two parts: lighter foods before the prayer and a more substantial meal afterward. The foods consumed primarily during Ramadan are carbohydrates such as rice, grains, or bread; proteins from both meat and fish; dairy products; and, of course, fruits and vegetables.
Example of food intake in Ramadan
Next, we'll show you what a Muslim can eat during the designated mealtimes for Ramadan . Please remember that this is just an example; not everyone follows the same diet or consumes the same things.
During breakfast (iftar), your body signals for energy , so some people eat dates, a glass of juice, and a cup of soup or some carbohydrates. Before dawn, it's not recommended to eat large quantities to avoid feeling heavy; a light meal is best. This could include cereals, bread, dairy products, fruit, salads, soups, etc.
At dinnertime, it's advisable to eat a variety of foods, but without overdoing it : meat, fish, grains, milk, vegetables, and fruit. To avoid feeling unwell during the fast, as we've mentioned, it's best to avoid heavy meals; they should be balanced, which is key to our health.
At what age can this celebration start?
Here's one of the most frequently asked questions as this month begins. Any Muslim who has passed puberty is ready to begin Ramadan. There's no exact age, but it's generally considered to be between 13 and 14 years old.
As we have mentioned, there are a number of exceptions, whether for health reasons or other circumstances such as chronic illnesses, mental illness, pregnant or breastfeeding women, menstruating women, diabetics or the elderly.
As you can see, there are many curiosities behind this month of celebration of Ramadan. A period of time, where the relationship with his religion grows, with his faith and above all with his god.
There are five pillars of Islam that everyone should know. The first of them Sawm, we talk about fasting from sunset until it hides. Shahadah, is the belief that there is no deity other than their God and their prophet Mohammed. Zakat, the third pillar that tells us about giving charity to those who need it. The fourth pillar is Salah, which invites five prayers a day. Finally Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in the life of Muslims.
