Nairobi, February 28- Ramadhan is a deeply significant time for Muslims around the world. As the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, it is marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. Whether you are a Muslim preparing for Ramadhan or someone who wants to learn more about this sacred month, understanding its meaning and practices can help you appreciate its spiritual and cultural importance.
What is Ramadhan?
Ramadhan is a month of self-discipline and spiritual growth. It commemorates the period when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, focusing on deepening their faith, practicing gratitude, and helping those in need.
Ramadhan follows the lunar calendar, meaning its start and end dates vary each year depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. In 2025, Ramadhan is expected to begin on March 1.
Why Do Muslims Fast?
Fasting (Sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it an essential practice in Ramadhan. It serves multiple purposes:
- Spiritual purification – Strengthening one’s connection with Allah through prayer and self-restraint.
- Self-discipline – Learning patience by abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs.
- Empathy and charity – Experiencing hunger helps individuals develop compassion for those less fortunate.
While fasting is obligatory for most adult Muslims, there are exceptions for children, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, travelers, and those who are ill.
Daily Routine During Ramadhan
To understand Ramadhan better, it’s helpful to know the key practices that shape each day:
🌙 Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal): Muslims wake up before dawn to eat a nutritious meal that will sustain them throughout the day.
🌞 Fasting (Dawn to Dusk): From Fajr (pre-dawn) to Maghrib (sunset), Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in sinful behavior.
🌅 Iftar (Breaking the Fast): At sunset, the fast is broken with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is followed by a full meal.
🕌 Prayer and Worship: Throughout the day, Muslims perform five daily prayers (Salah), with special emphasis on:
- Taraweeh prayers – Extra night prayers held at the mosque.
- Quran recitation – Many aim to complete reading the Quran during Ramadhan.
- Dua (Supplication) – Seeking forgiveness and making personal prayers.
Ramadhan and Acts of Kindness
Ramadhan is also a time for giving. Muslims are encouraged to:
🤲 Give to charity – Donations through Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary giving) help those in need.
💞 Strengthen relationships – Families and communities come together for shared meals and prayers.
🙏 Practice patience and kindness – Avoiding arguments, gossip, and negative thoughts is a key part of spiritual discipline.
How Non-Muslims Can Show Support
If you are not Muslim but want to understand and respect Ramadhan, here are a few ways to be supportive:
✔ Be mindful of fasting – Avoid offering food or drinks to someone fasting.
✔ Respect prayer times – Understand that Muslims may need breaks for prayer.
✔ Join Iftar gatherings – Many Muslims invite friends and colleagues to share Iftar meals.
✔ Learn and ask questions – Showing interest in Ramadhan is always appreciated.
Understanding the Importance of Food in Ramadhan
While fasting is central to Ramadhan, mindful eating plays an important role in keeping the body healthy. Here are some key food practices:
Best Foods for Suhoor & Iftar
🥣 Suhoor: Oats, whole grains, eggs, yogurt, fruits, milk, dates, and nuts for sustained energy.
🍽️ Iftar: Dates, fruits, soup, lean proteins, and complex carbs (brown rice, whole wheat) for nourishment.
🚫 What to Avoid:
- Too much salt – Can increase thirst.
- Processed foods – Cause sluggishness.
- Excessive caffeine – Leads to dehydration.
- Sugary and fried foods – Cause digestion issues.
Final Thoughts
Ramadhan is more than just fasting—it’s a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and community connection. Whether you are observing it yourself or want to support those who do, understanding its significance can help foster respect and appreciation for this sacred month.
Wishing everyone a peaceful and blessed Ramadhan! 🌙✨
