What is Ramadaan, and why is it significant? Students from the Aleemia Mosque in Phoenix prepare for the month-long fast of Ramadaan, which will most likely start on Sunday, depending on the sighting of the moon. The students are, standing from left, Zaybah Khan, Izza Sayed and Arfa Naaz Ebrahim. Kneeling from left: Asif Mahmood, Raheen Kadir, Mohamed Mahmood, Zeeshan Shaik, Uzair Ally and Zunaid Essop. The Editor and staff wish our readers and advertisers Ramadaan Mubarak. Picture: Supplied
MOULANA ISMAIL MOOSA
Soon, the month of Ramadaan will dawn upon the Muslim community, bringing with it a time of reflection, devotion, and self-discipline. But what exactly is Ramadaan, and why is it so significant?
Ramadaan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which adult Muslims are required to fast from dawn to sunset. Muslims do not eat, drink or engage in marital intercourse during these hours and focus on prayer, reciting and learning the Qur’an (the Muslims holy book), self-discipline and helping those in need. A special concession from fasting is given to the elderly, ill, travellers, pregnant women, etc.
Ramadaan is a sacred month in Islam.
It is the month when the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (may God's salutations and peace be upon him) in 7th-century Arabia. It is a time for spiritual growth, self-improvement, and strengthening one’s connection with God. Fasting during Ramadaan teaches patience, gratitude, and empathy for those less fortunate. It is also a time for extra prayer, charity, and seeking forgiveness.
Ramadaan in 2025 will begin from either the sunset of Friday, February 28, or the sunset of Saturday, March 1, and conclude at either the sunset of Sunday, March 30, or the sunset of Monday, March 31. The exact dates depend on the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the beginning and end of each month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
During the nights of Ramadaan, a special prayer known as the Taraweeh is performed in congregation after the regular night time prayer. The Taraweeh is a way for Muslims to seek closeness to God, reflect on the Qur’an recited during the prayer, and increase their spirituality. It is a special tradition that brings people together in worship.
After Ramadaan, Muslims celebrate Eid ul-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast." It is a joyful occasion that marks the end of a month of fasting and spiritual upliftment. It is an expression of gratitude for God’s innumerable favours.
Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated by special prayers performed in large gatherings in open spaces. Before the prayer a small charity, the minimum of which is around R30, is discharged by every Muslim to ensure that everyone can celebrate Eid.
Although the charity is considered fulfilled on discharging the minimum amount, Muslims are encouraged to give extra. The purpose of this charity is to purify one's fast, help those in need, and promote fairness in the community. It is required from every Muslim who can afford it and is given on behalf of each family member.
On Eid-ul-Fitr families enjoy special meals together, visit loved ones and give gifts, especially to children. Many wear their finest clothes. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and community.
To summarise, Ramadaan is a meaningful month for Muslims, meant to inculcate the core principles of Islam; self-discipline, spiritual devotion, gratitude, kindness and empathy. These values as well as promoting a sense of community and unity are central to Islam. Understanding the Ramadaan offers insight into the values and practices that shape Muslim life, fostering greater appreciation and respect across diverse communities.
Moulana Ismail Moosa has a Bcom degree with a major in economics. He graduated from a local seminary and currently works for the Islamic Propagation Centre International where they explain Islam to those unfamiliar with it and remove misconceptions.
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