Month of Ramadan

Ramadan Mubarak! Or happy fasting, to those who observe the traditions. This year Ramadan began on Sunday, March 10th, and will end on Tuesday, April 9th. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. This calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar which makes the timing of Ramadan change slightly every year. 

Between crescent moons, the Muslim tradition is to fast during the day and feast during the night, after sunset. Suhoor and Iftar are the two meals, eaten after sunset and before sunrise. Popular food during these meals includes Ramazan Pidesi (a fluffy flatbread with sesame seeds), Qatayef (a fried dough stuffed with cream, nuts, or cheese), Zoolbia (a dessert doughnut), Samosa (triangular filled fried pastry), Chorba Frik (savory soup), and other traditional feast dishes.

The traditions of Ramadan began because of the introduction of the Quran, the central religious text of Islam, which happened during the month of Ramadan. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims don’t just fast, they refrain from all forms of immoral thought and behavior as well. Sexual activity, false words, unkind thoughts, and bad deeds are all considered wrong but can be made up for by fasting an extra day at the end of Ramadan to display restraint and atone for past wrongdoings. 

Ramadan is not just about what not to do, it is also a time for additional recognition and time with family and friends. People spend their time on introspection, prayers in the mosque, and faithful intention.  During this time God forgives all past sins of those who observe the holiday.

The Month of Ramadan ends with the major Muslim holiday, Eid al-Fitr, which celebrates the breaking of the fast. In some places the holiday is a huge celebration: people visit the graves of deceased relatives, spend time with family, pray at Mosques, exchange gifts, bake special pastries, and more.

The month-long holiday is important in the Muslim religion as it recognizes the faith and beliefs of those who observe. Even if you don’t fast during this time of year, it isn’t a bad idea to spend extra time with your family, think introspectively, or practice some restraint.