Ramadan Starts: Muslims Prepare for a Sacred Month of Fasting
As the new moon has been sighted, thousands of Muslims worldwide are preparing to begin their month-long fast tomorrow. This marks the start of Ramadan, one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar. It is a time for spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and community for Muslims all around the globe. The announcement of the moon sighting has been officially confirmed by the Fiji Muslim League, making it a day of anticipation for many.
Ramadan holds great significance as it is believed to be the month when the Quran, the Islamic holy book, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the angel Jibreel. The month is a reminder for Muslims of their faith and devotion to God. During this period, Muslims observe a strict fast, refraining from eating or drinking from dawn until sunset. The fast is not only a physical discipline but also a spiritual one, aimed at bringing believers closer to God, purifying the soul, and fostering empathy for the less fortunate.
The Significance of Ramadan
The significance of Ramadan goes beyond just fasting. It is a time for Muslims to strengthen their relationship with Allah (SWT), seek forgiveness, and improve their moral and spiritual character. During this month, Muslims engage in additional prayers, especially the Taraweeh prayers after the Isha prayer, which are performed in congregations in mosques. The fast serves as a form of worship and an opportunity for personal growth.
The Quran mentions the importance of Ramadan in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 185, stating, “Ramadan is the month in which was sent down the Quran, a guidance for mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and judgment.” This verse underscores the pivotal role of Ramadan in Islamic life. The fasting is a way to cleanse the body and mind, elevate the spiritual state, and earn rewards from Allah. It is also an opportunity to develop empathy for the less fortunate, who experience hunger daily.
The Fasting Tradition
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a core aspect of the faith. From dawn until sunset, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and other physical needs. The fast is broken with the Iftar meal at sunset, usually starting with dates and water, followed by a larger meal. Before dawn, Muslims consume a pre-dawn meal known as Suhoor, which helps sustain them throughout the day. These practices are not just about abstaining from food but also from bad habits, encouraging Muslims to focus on positive behaviors and spiritual growth.
The fast is also a means of solidarity. By fasting, Muslims develop a sense of unity and equality, understanding the hardships faced by others, especially those who are less fortunate. The act of fasting brings the community together in a shared experience, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim Ummah.
Ramadan Begins in Different Parts of the World
The announcement of the Ramadan start date is based on the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of the new month in the Islamic lunar calendar. As the moon has been sighted in certain parts of the world, Muslims in those regions are preparing to begin their fast tomorrow, March 2. The Fiji Muslim League has confirmed this for their members, and they extend their heartfelt wishes for a blessed and fruitful Ramadhan. The League’s executive body hopes that the light of this sacred month will guide all Muslims toward goodness and righteousness.
In Kashmir, however, the crescent moon was not sighted, and as a result, Ramadhan will begin on March 2, according to Mufti Nasir ul Islam. This decision aligns with the observation that the crescent moon was not visible in Jammu and Kashmir, as confirmed by the Grand Mufti of Kashmir and other Islamic authorities in the region. The Markaz-e-Chand Committee in Lucknow and the Markaz-e-Royat-e-Hilal Committee in Delhi also made similar announcements, declaring March 2 as the start of Ramadhan in their respective areas.
A Global Celebration
While Ramadan begins on different dates across the globe depending on the moon sighting, it is a month of shared experiences and worship for Muslims everywhere. In Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries, the crescent moon has been sighted, so they will begin their fasting on Saturday, March 1. Despite the slight variations in start dates, Muslims from all over the world will unite in their commitment to observing the fast, praying, and doing good deeds throughout the month.
In countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others, Ramadan is a time when communities come together in mosques for Taraweeh prayers, share meals at Iftar, and engage in acts of charity. The sense of solidarity and togetherness during this month is unparalleled, as Muslims gather to celebrate the blessings of Allah and seek His mercy and forgiveness.
The Blessings of Ramadhan
The blessings of Ramadan are numerous. The month is filled with opportunities for spiritual growth, self-reflection, and closeness to God. Muslims believe that during Ramadan, the gates of Heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell are closed, offering a chance for believers to earn Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. The last ten days of Ramadan, particularly the odd-numbered nights, are considered the most sacred, with Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) being one of the most significant nights. It is believed that the prayers offered on this night are especially powerful and can bring immense blessings.
Muslims also engage in acts of charity during Ramadan. Giving to those in need, supporting charitable organizations, and helping those less fortunate a key aspect of the month. It is a time to reflect on the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon individuals and to share those blessings with others. Zakat, the compulsory almsgiving, is often paid during Ramadhan, as it is believed that acts of charity during this time carry greater rewards.
Eid Celebrations After Ramadhan
After a month of fasting, Ramadan culminates in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting period. Eid is a joyous occasion, and Muslims celebrate with family, friends, and fellow community members. It is a time for giving thanks to Allah for the strength to complete the fast and for the opportunity to renew one’s faith. Special prayers are offered in congregation at mosques, followed by a festive meal, gifts, and spending time with loved ones.
The sighting of the new moon at the end of Ramadan signifies the start of Eid al-Fitr, and it is a day of happiness and gratitude. Families often gather for large feasts, sharing meals and sweets, and exchanging gifts. For Muslims, Eid is not only a celebration of the completion of the fast but also an opportunity to reinforce their faith, strengthen relationships, and contribute to their communities.
Ramadan is a month of immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. Whether starting tomorrow or on a slightly different date based on moon sightings, the essence of the month remains the same. It is a time for self-discipline, prayer, reflection, and charity. As Muslims prepare for this holy month, they look forward to the blessings it brings, with the hope of becoming better individuals and growing closer to Allah.
