The primary and most significant practice during Ramadan is fasting, known as Sawm . Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). During these hours, they abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations.
Fasting is a means of purifying the soul, practicing self-discipline, and empathizing with the less fortunate.
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal consumed before the fast begins at Fajr (the dawn prayer). It’s encouraged to have this meal, as it provides nourishment and energy for the day.
Suhoor typically includes high-energy foods such as eggs, yogurt, fruits, dates, and whole grains. Hydrating drinks like water, milk, or juice are also common.
Iftar is the meal to break the fast at sunset. It begins with the Maghrib prayer, and it's common to break the fast by eating dates and drinking water, emulating the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
After dates and water, the meal often includes a variety of dishes depending on the cultural background. Common foods are soups (like lentil or harira), samosas, breads, and rice dishes like biryani or pilaf. Sweets like qatayef (stuffed pancakes) and kunafa (a cheese-filled dessert) are popular.
Tarawih are special nightly prayers performed during Ramadan. These prayers are not obligatory but are highly recommended. They involve reading portions of the Quran, and the entire Quran is often completed by the end of Ramadan.
Tarawih prayers are a communal event in mosques, fostering a sense of unity and spirituality among Muslims.
This is one of the odd-numbered nights during the last ten days of Ramadan, with the 27th night being particularly emphasized. It is believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Laylat al-Qadr is considered the holiest night in the Islamic calendar, and it is said that worship on this night is better than a thousand months. Muslims spend the night in prayer, recitation of the Quran, and seeking forgiveness.
Itikaf is a spiritual retreat that some Muslims undertake during the last ten days of Ramadan. It involves staying in the mosque, focusing on prayer, meditation, and recitation of the Quran, distancing oneself from worldly distractions.
The purpose of Itikaf is to seek closeness to Allah, reflect deeply on one's life, and renew spiritual commitment.
Zakat al-Fitr is a form of charity given to the needy at the end of Ramadan before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. It is obligatory for every Muslim who has the means to do so.
This charity ensures that everyone, including the poor, can celebrate Eid and partake in the festivities. It also purifies those who fast from any indecent act or speech.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the breaking of the month-long fast. It is a day of celebration, communal prayers, feasting, and giving charity.
On Eid, Muslims perform a special prayer at the mosque, visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.
The foods vary by region but often include rich and sweet dishes like sheer khurma (a vermicelli pudding), baklava , maamoul (stuffed cookies), and savory dishes like kebabs and biryani.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims focus on reciting and reflecting upon the Quran. Many aim to complete the entire Quran during the month.
In many communities, Quran recitations and study circles (Tafseer sessions) are held in mosques, fostering learning and spiritual growth.
Beyond Zakat al-Fitr, Muslims are encouraged to give extra charity during Ramadan. This could be in the form of money, food, or helping others.
Charity is highly rewarded during Ramadan, and it is seen as a way to purify wealth and gain blessings.
Ramadan is a time for family and community bonding. Iftar meals are often shared with extended family, neighbors, or the entire community, especially in mosques or community centers.
These gatherings emphasize the communal spirit of Ramadan, fostering unity, love, and mutual support.
Each region has its own special foods associated with Ramadan. For example, in the Middle East, dishes like mansaf (a traditional Jordanian dish), kebab , and hummus are common. In South Asia, dishes like haleem (a slow-cooked stew) and pakoras (fried snacks) are popular.
Dates are symbolic during Ramadan due to their historical and religious significance.
