The First Day of Ramadan!

The month of Ramadhan is that in which the Qur'an was revealed, as guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sees the new moon of the ninth month (beginning of Ramadan) should commence fasting. This is the command of Allah to all Muslims.

The month of Ramadan holds profound significance in the Islamic faith, as it marks the period during which the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad as guidance for humanity. Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion to worship.

According to Islamic tradition, the beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Upon sighting the new moon, Muslims are commanded by Allah to commence fasting, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset each day throughout the entire month. Fasting during Ramadan is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam, fundamental acts of worship that serve as the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice.

The observance of Ramadan is not only a personal act of obedience to Allah but also a communal experience that fosters unity and solidarity among Muslims worldwide. It is a time for self-reflection, repentance, and spiritual growth, as believers strive to deepen their connection with Allah, increase their acts of charity, and seek forgiveness for past sins.

Through fasting, Muslims are reminded of the blessings of sustenance provided by Allah and are encouraged to develop empathy and compassion for those less fortunate. Ramadan serves as a time of purification and renewal, offering believers the opportunity to strengthen their faith, cultivate self-discipline, and strive for spiritual elevation.

Ultimately, Ramadan is a sacred and transformative period in the Islamic calendar, embodying the principles of piety, humility, and gratitude. By observing the fast and engaging in acts of worship and service, Muslims seek to draw closer to Allah, purify their hearts, and attain spiritual fulfilment during this blessed month.

This year's Ramadan 1445 began worldwide on the evening of Sunday, March 10th, 2024, following the sighting of the new moon marking the start of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This signifies the commencement of the month-long period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection observed by Muslims around the globe. During Ramadan, believers abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset, focusing instead on acts of worship, charity, and self-improvement. The start of Ramadan is a significant and joyous occasion for Muslims, as it marks the beginning of a sacred period dedicated to deepening one's connection with Allah and seeking spiritual purification.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. 

As commanded by the Almighty Allah every healthy Muslim must observe fasting according to the Sunnah of the holy prophet Muhammad (s.a.w). With reference to Surah Baqarah Ayah 183 -

"O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (learn) self-restraint" 

184 - "Observe fasting for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is I'll, or on a journey, the prescribed number (should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will - it is better for him. And it is better for you that you fast if you only knew." 

185 - Ramadan is the month in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgement (between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it fast, but if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you in difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you, and perchance you shall be grateful."

#updated on Sunday, March 10th, 2024