Ramadan Fasting Begins Today

Muslims around the globe have begun observing the fast for this year’s holy month of Ramadan, following the sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia and Mекка. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, begins and ends with the sighting of the new moon. During this period, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and sexual activity during daylight hours, as well as refrain from engaging in social vices.

Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for all adult Muslims, except those who are exempt due to age, health conditions, or other challenges, as stated in the Holy Quran, Chapter 2, Verse 183. This 29 or 30-day fast is one of the five pillars of Islam and serves as a way to draw closer to Allah, fostering self-control, gratitude, and compassion for the less fortunate.

Muslims view Ramadan as an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and moral improvement. It is a time to train both physically and spiritually by avoiding negative behaviors such as gossiping, backbiting, lying, or arguing. Ramadan is also a highly social time, with Muslims inviting each other to break their fast together and gathering for prayers at the mosque.

The month concludes with the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr, or the Festival of Fast-Breaking, marking the end of Ramadan.