What is Ramadan?

By Bismah Arif, 2026

Published 3/29/2024

For the next two weeks, Muslims worldwide will continue to fast during Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. This holy month is a time for prayer, introspection, fasting, and discipline for Muslims. It holds so much significance because it is when the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is also believed that Shaitan (the Devil in Islam) is locked up during Ramadan, so all Muslims have to account for their own deeds and be on their best behavior. 

Ramadan began on March 11, and it is expected to end on April 10 with the celebration of Eid-al-Fitr. Each day in Ramadan, all Muslims are expected to fast from sunrise to sunset. They begin by eating a pre-dawn meal (almost like an early breakfast) called suhoor. Then, Fajr prayer starts and the time for suhoor ends. Throughout the day, Muslims abstain from consuming drinks and food. After the Maghrib prayer in the evening, they break their fast, ideally with dates, in a meal called iftar. 

Some wonder if regular fasting is unhealthy for the body. If done properly, fasting should not pose any serious health problems to those fasting. Many drink a moderate amount of water during suhoor and iftar, so dehydration is not an issue. In fact, fasting can be beneficial for the body in some aspects: fasting has been proven to cleanse the body of toxins and allow metabolism to slow down, facilitating the process of healing the body. 

Fasting is an important pillar in Islam, and is obligatory for all Muslims except for the sick, elderly, traveling, menstruating, pregnant, and young kids. It helps to discipline the mind and heart, and it teaches gratitude for blessings and empathy for the unfortunate. This month also offers many opportunities for self-reflection in ways like becoming more consistent in prayers, reading more of the Qur'an, and focusing on faith. This is often practiced in the form of donating to charity, giving food as a gift, and coming together in mosques to become the best version of themselves. In addition, to make things festive, Muslims will start decorating their homes with lanterns, lights, and other ornaments like moons and stars – iconic symbols in Islam. 

So, if you notice any of your Muslims friends fasting, please be respectful and try to not eat in front of them, and be sure to wish them Ramadan Mubarak!