Ramadan Begins

History of Ramadan Begins

Ramadan was already a known month of the calendar even before Prophet Muhammad’s mission. Naturally, fasting the Month had not yet been made obligatory then. It only happened in year 2 A.H, after 15 years of the Prophet’s mission. However, Ramadan actually marks the beginning of the Prophet’s mission. On a very special blessed night, Angel Jibreel revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad for the first time. That is Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree).

This blessed night lies in the final ten nights of Ramadan. The specific night among the ten changes every Ramadan. Allah took away the Prophet’s knowledge of that night as people quarreled as he was about to inform them. Additionally, this Night is better than a thousand months. This means the good deeds on this night exceed those of 83 years. As Allah, may He be exalted, says: “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” Chapter (97) sūrat l-qadr (The Night of Decree): 3.

This Month is a time of fasting, prayer in the mosque, and reciting the Quran. During Ramadan, Allah forgives sins and, frees people from the Hellfire every night. Muslims will gather in their homes or mosques with their friends and extended family after the sunset prayer to break their fast. This meal is called Iftar. The meal that precedes dawn before the start of fasting is called Suhoor. So, fasting extends from Suhoor to Iftar. After Ramadan comes Eid al-Fitr (the Feast of Fast-Breaking), which signals the end of fasting. It lasts for three days during which Muslims show delight. They gather to enjoy each other’s company, check on their relatives, and exchange happiness. There is also the special prayer of Eid on the first day.

Ramadan Begins timeline

570 A.D

The Prophet’s Birth

Prophet Muhammad is born.

610 A.D

The Mission Given

The Quran is first revealed to Prophet Muhammad by angel Jibreel.

622 A.D

The Islamic Calendar

The lunar Islamic calendar begins.

622 A.D

The Prophet Completes Hijra

Prophet Muhammad completes his Hijra (Migration) from Mecca to Medina to escape persecution.

624 A.D

Fasting Enjoined

Allah makes fasting during Ramadan obligatory.

Ramadan Begins FAQs

When is Ramadan Begins?

In 2027, Ramadan commences at sundown on Monday, February 8, and extends until Wednesday, March 10, inviting Muslims worldwide into a period of deep reflection.

How many Muslims observe Ramadan?

Globally, the Muslim population, estimated at nearly 2 billion, dedicates the month of Ramadan to fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, uniting in spiritual practice.

What is the significance of fasting during Ramadan?

The act of fasting from dawn until dusk during Ramadan serves as a spiritual purification, fostering gratitude, patience, and a heightened awareness of one’s faith and community.

What are the Five Pillars of Islam?

These fundamental practices — the declaration of faith, daily prayers, charitable giving, the Ramadan fast, and the pilgrimage to Mecca — guide Muslims in their worship and daily conduct.

How to Observe Ramadan Begins

Join in the fasting

Fast from sunrise to sunset. You can be exempt if you are ill, traveling, or menstruating.

Pay Zakat al-fitr (Fitrana)

Donate money to a charity or give to those who are less fortunate. This is at the heart of Ramadan.

Research on Ramadan

There’s still a lot to know about this beautiful month. Research it as much as you can. Make sure to use trustworthy sources.

5 Facts About Ramadan

Children don't fast

Children don’t need to fast until they come of age (Buloogh).

Niyyah is needed

Muslims must have niyyah (intention) in their hearts to fast Ramadan; unless the fast is interrupted for a day or more due to a permissible reason, resolving once at the beginning of the Month is enough.

Make up on missed days

If you cannot fast, you can make up for missed days later in the year. If you are ill with no hope of recovery and can’t make up, provide a meal to a needy person for each missed day.