Millions of Muslims around the world will dedicate July to fasting in a religious custom known as Ramadan. For those in the Islamic community, Ramadan is a time to draw closer to God, curb fleshly desires like greed and selfishness, and focus on faith and charity.
This year Ramadan began on Monday, July 8, with the first full day of fasting on July 9. The ending of Ramadan is marked by the holiday of Eid ul-Fitr, which takes place either 29 or 30 days after the beginning of the month. On Eid ul-Fitr, morning prayers are followed by feasting and celebration among family and friends. This year Eid ul-Fitr will begin on Wednesday, Aug. 7, and will end the evening of Thursday, Aug. 8.
During the daily fasting, which lasts from drawn to sunset, Muslims refrain from food and liquid. As per tradition, food and drink are only served before sunrise and after sunset. According to Islam, the "thawab," or rewards of fasting, are multiplied during the month of Ramadan. In addition to fasting, Muslims typically increase their offering of "salat" prayers and recitation of the Quran. Many Muslims use Ramadan to read the entire Quran or read the Quran daily.
The word Ramadan, which comes from the Arabic root ramida or ar-ramad, means scorching heat or dryness. Fasting is mandatory for adult Muslims, except those who are ill, travelling, pregnant, diabetic or going through menstrual bleeding.
Charity is also an important part of Ramadan, which is used to reflect and practice self-sacrifice and empathy for the hungry. During Ramadan, Muslim communities work together to raise money for the poor, donate clothes and food, and hold iftar dinners for the less fortunate.
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