Islam follows the Lunar calendar in which each month starts with the sighting of the new moon. Ramadan, also known as Ramzan (Ramjan), is the ninth and the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. Islamic holidays and festivals move every year, because Lunar calendar is 11 days shorter than the Solar calendar.

When is Ramadan / Ramzan in 2008?

In 2008, Ramadan starts at sundown on the 1st September, Monday. Eid-Ul-Fitr (Ramzan) falls on the 1st October, Wednesday (tentative). Eid-Ul-Fitr may be on 2nd October, Thursday in 2008. In 2008, Shab – e – Kadar falls on 27th September, September, Saturday.

Ramadan – The Month of Self-sacrifice:
For over 1.8 billion Muslims across the world, Ramadan is a month of blessing, designated by prayers, fasting and charity. More than just being a holy month, Ramadan retains its credibility for self-sacrifice and devotion to the God (Allah).

Significance of Ramadan / Ramjan:
According to the Muslim sources, Allah revealed the first verses of the holy Quran, during the month of Ramadan. Quran is considered as the holy book of Islam. In the 7th Century, Muhammed, a caravan trader, identified himself speaking the verses that would be transcribed as the Quran in following days.

Recitation of the Quran During Ramadan / Ramzan:
During the Ramadan, devotees at many mosques, recite about one thirtieth of the Quran each night. Devotees recite the Quran in the form of prayers known as ‘Tarawih’. They complete the recitation of the whole scripture of the Quran by the end of the month.

Fasting – the important Custom of Ramadan:
Muslims consider Ramadan as a time for fasting, taming human passions and developing compassion for the less fortunate people. One of the five pillars of Islam, fasting is the predominant custom of Ramadan. Muslims practice ‘Sawm’ (fasting), which is done with a great devotion without taking at least water, while the sun shines. All the Muslims practice the Sawm from about the age Twelve.

What is Suhoor?
Suhoor is the meal eaten before the sunrises during Ramadan.

What is Iftar?
Iftar is the evening fast breaking meal taken after the sun sets. Iftar is generally begins with dates and sweet juices and drinks that provide a quick and instant energy boost.

Fasting – A Practice For Self-Control:
In general, fasting serves many purposes. While fasting, the Muslims are reminded of the suffering of the poor. Fasting is one of the ways to enhance self-control and to cleanse the mind and body. The sacred month of fasting helps Muslims to feel and spread the peace that arises from spiritual devotion.

Eid-Ul- Fitr:
Eid-Ul-Fitr is celebrated on the closing day of the fasting month, Ramadan. Literally, the festival is a day for breaking the fast. On the day of the festival, Muslims dress in their finest clothes and decorate their homes with lights and other decorative items. They visit the mosques and pray the Allah for peace and prosperity.

Happy Ramadan