The blessed month of Ramadan is upon us. A time of reflection, purification, and drawing closer to the Divine. In preparation, we’ve gathered the main dates (no pun intended) to be aware of during this auspicious season of goodness and blessings.
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, tracking the moon’s phases. Consequently, the sacred month of Ramadan shifts about 10 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar. For 2024, Ramadan is anticipated to start on the evening of Sunday, March 10th, depending upon the observation of the moon. The month-long observance is set to conclude on the evening of Tuesday, April 9th. Following this, the festivities of Eid al-Fitr are to commence on Wednesday, April 10th, as determined by moon sightings.
Ramadan Starts: Evening of Sunday 10 March 2024.
First Fast: Monday 11 March 2024.
Ramadan Duration: 29 or 30 days (dependent on the lunar cycle).
Ramadan Ends: Evening of Tuesday 9 April 2024.
Eid al-Fitr Starts: Wednesday 10 April 2024.
Please Note: The above dates are subject to moonsighting.
The Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is structured around the moon’s phases, consisting of 12 months but is shorter than the solar year by approximately 10 days. This discrepancy causes Islamic months and holidays to move through the seasons over a 33-year cycle.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year, holds significant spiritual importance for Muslims worldwide. It is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. The timing of Ramadan shifts each year due to the lunar calendar’s nature, gradually rotating through the seasons.
In Islamic tradition, the day starts at sunset, not sunrise. This means Islamic dates change at night, affecting when Ramadan and other events start and end.
Sawm, or fasting, is a crucial practice in Islam, especially during Ramadan. It’s one of the Five Pillars of Islam. During Ramadan, those who are healthy and adults, are expected to fast from sunrise to sunset. Fasting starts when the early morning prayer of Fajr begins, and ends at sunset, with the entry of Maghrib prayers.
Through fasting, Muslims show obedience to their Lord, drawing closer to Him. They also appreciate the blessings bestowed upon them, growing a sense of compassion in their hearts for the less fortunate.
Eid al-Fitr, the ‘Festival of Breaking the Fast,’ marks the end of Ramadan. This significant holiday can last up to three days, starting only after the moon is sighted. This year’s celebration is anticipated to begin on the evening before Wednesday 10 April 2024. It’s a period filled with lavish meals, gift-giving to children, and quality time with loved ones. For exact dates and community events, it’s recommended to consult your local mosque.
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