What and when is Ramadan 2024?
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims won’t eat or drink during the hours of daylight. This is called fasting. Children are not expected to fast until they reach puberty, usually around the age of 14.
Ramadan remembers the month the Qur’an (the Muslim holy book) was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The actual night that the Qur’an was revealed is a night known as Lailut ul-Qadr (‘The Night of Power’).
When is Ramadan 2024
This year, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening on Sunday 10 March and end on Tuesday 9 April. The Islamic Calendar follows a lunar cycle, and while these are the calculated expected dates of Ramadan, they can differ from place to place based on moon-sightings or lack thereof.
How is Ramadan celebrated?
Most Muslims fast between dawn and sunset. Fasting allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith. It is thought to teach self-discipline and reminds them of the suffering of the poor.
However, children, pregnant women, elderly people and those who are ill or travelling don’t have to fast. During Ramadan, it is common to have one meal (known as thesuhoor) just before dawn and another (known as the iftar) directly after sunset.
Almost all Muslims try to give up bad habits during Ramadan. It is a time for prayer and good deeds. They will try to spend time with family and friends and help people in need.
Many Muslims will attempt to read the whole of the Qur’an at least once during Ramadan. They will also attend special services in Mosques during which the Qur’an is read.
Ei ul-Fitr
The end of Ramadan is marked by a big celebration called ‘Eid ul-Fitr’ (the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast).
Muslims are not only celebrating the end of fasting, but thanking Allah for the strength he gave them throughout the previous month.
Mosques hold special services, and a special meal is eaten during daytime (the first daytime meal for a month).
During Eid ul-Fitr, Muslims dress in their finest clothes, give gifts to children and spend time with their friends and family. Muslims will also give money to charity at Eid.
BBC Bitesize
Kibworth Golf Club – March 2024
