Ramadan Begins

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims worldwide. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin around March 1st, subject to the sighting of the new moon. During this month, able-bodied adult Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as a way to purify the soul, practice self-discipline, and focus on spiritual growth. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called Iftar, often shared with family and friends. Many Muslims increase their charitable activities during Ramadan, as it's considered a time of increased blessings and rewards. Mosques are particularly active, with special nightly prayers called Tarawih. The last ten nights of Ramadan are especially significant, with the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) believed to fall on one of these nights. This night commemorates the revelation of the first verses of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Ramadan concludes with the joyous festival of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the fasting period with special prayers, family gatherings, feasts, and acts of charity.