Islamic Calendar and Ramadan Fasting

Ramadan in the Islamic Calendar

• Ramadan falls on the ninth lunar month in the Islamic Calendar.

Significance of Ramadan

• Believed to be the month when the Holy Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as guidance for all mankind.
• The Angel Gabriel commenced the month of revelation to the Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) on the ninth lunar cycle of the year, making it a significant month for Muslims.

Fasting in Ramadan

• Fasting (sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
• Involves refraining from food, drink, sinful acts, and bad intentions between sunrise and sunset.
• The beginning of a fast is initiated with a dua (prayer) of niyah (intention).
• Eating dates is a popular way to break the fast.

Charity and Generosity in Ramadan

• Ramadan is an auspicious month for generosity and giving.
• The sawab (reward) for charity and benevolence in this month are immense.
• Many people choose to commit to Ramadan donations in this month.

Purpose of Fasting in Ramadan

• Muslims fast to become more compassionate towards those less fortunate than them.
• Fasting teaches Muslims perseverance, dedication, and self-control.
• Fasting helps Muslims to cleanse their minds and bodies and bring them closer to Allah (SWT) through prayer.

Eid ul-Fitr and the Last 10 Nights of Ramadan

• Ramadan concludes with Eid ul-Fitr, a celebration that follows the period of fasting.
• The last 10 nights of Ramadan hold special power, particularly Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power).
• Giving charity during the last 10 nights of Ramadan brings exceptional rewards equal to those received by doing 1,000 months of good deeds.

Zakat al-Fitrana and Sadaqah

• Zakat al-Fitrana is a compulsory payment that every Muslim must make during Ramadan, before the commencement of the first Eid prayers.
• Sadaqah is when a Muslim does any number of good deeds and expects nothing in return.
• Sadaqah can include helping someone, volunteering, or providing aid to those in need.