بداية رمضان

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar and is unequivocally the most sacred and blessed month of the year — a month that Allah SWT Himself has elevated above all others. The Quran was first revealed during the month of Ramadan, as Allah SWT declares: "The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185). Fasting (Sawm) during the entire month of Ramadan is the fourth of the Five Pillars of Islam, obligatory upon every sane, adult, healthy Muslim.

Muslims fast from the pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) before Fajr prayer until sunset at Maghrib, abstaining completely from food, drink (including water), marital relations, and all immoral speech or behavior. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained." (Bukhari & Muslim). Ramadan is divided into three portions (Ashras): the first ten days are of Mercy (Rahma), the second ten days are of Forgiveness (Maghfirah), and the final ten days are of salvation from the Hellfire (Itq min al-Nar).

The last ten nights of Ramadan are especially significant, as the Prophet ﷺ would increase his worship, prayer, and Dhikr during these nights, performing I'tikaf (spiritual seclusion) in the mosque. Ramadan is also the month of charity (Sadaqah and Zakat), Tarawih prayers (20 rak'ahs of voluntary night prayer), Quran completion (Khatm al-Quran), and intense spiritual renewal. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever fasts in Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari).