Explainer: What is Ramadan?

Nearly 2 billion Muslims around the world will celebrate the Islamic holiday of Ramadan, which is expected to begin on March 10 or 11, depending on the appearance of the moon.

During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from fasting, alcohol, smoking, gossip and sex from sunrise to sunset.

The purpose of fasting is to bring Muslims closer to God and to help them better empathize with those less fortunate.

The global Muslim population is large and diverse, so Ramadan traditions vary slightly around the world. Here are some facts about Ramadan:

What is the origin of Ramadan?

Muslims believe that God’s messenger revealed the Muslim holy book, the Quran, to the Prophet Muhammad in 610 AD.

The five pillars of Islam are: Shahada (faith), salat (prayer), zakat (almsgiving), sawm (fasting) and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).

How is the start of Ramadan determined?

Ramadan occurs in the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon. Since the Muslim calendar year is shorter than the Gregorian calendar year, Ramadan starts 10-12 days earlier each year. Most of the world uses the Gregorian calendar.

In 2024, Ramadan ends at sunset on April 9 or 10.

Because lunar sightings depend on the moon’s position relative to the Earth, countries may celebrate the start of Ramadan on different days.

What are the rules for fasting during Ramadan?

During Ramadan, Muslims rise before dawn to eat Suhoor, a light meal containing protein, other nutrients and drinks, and then begin fasting at sunrise.

Many Muslims recite the Quran before breaking their fast.

After sunset, however, Muslims typically gather to eat iftar—breaking the fast—the most important meal of the day. Iftar meals usually include fruits, cheese, sweets, vegetables, bread and halal meats. However, the fast was initially broken in the manner of the Prophet Muhammad – by taking a sip of water and dates.

Are some Muslims exempt from fasting?

Fasting is not meant to cause difficulty. The elderly, young children, the sick, pregnant, nursing or menstruating women, and people traveling are exempt from fasting.

But Muslims who are not fasting must celebrate the holy month by reading and reciting the Quran, focusing on their spiritual goals and giving alms.

Some facts about Ramadan

Many Muslims say “Ramadan Mubarak” (holy month of Ramadan) when greeting each other at the beginning of the month.

sunni islam It is the largest branch of the religion. Sunni Muslims account for approximately 87% to 90% of the world’s Muslims. Shia Islam is the second largest branch. Shia Muslims Accounting for about 10% to 13%.

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is the end of the month-long celebration of Ramadan.

Eid celebrations vary, but usually include a holiday of time with family and friends, gift-giving, charitable donations, and food and activities.

Muslim population

Indonesia is the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, with approximately 240 million people. Muslims account for nearly 90% of the country’s 277 million people.

The world’s Muslim population is approximately 2 billion, accounting for nearly a quarter of the global population.

Islam is the second largest religion in the world. Christianity is the biggest.

This report received some information from The Associated Press.