The Month of Ramadan
The Muslim holiday of Ramadan is a monthlong observance. It honors the revelation of the Holy Word to Muhammad. During this month (which on Western calendars in 2024 runs March 11 to April 10), Muslims fast (or don't eat or drink) for the entire time the Sun is up. At sundown, they have a special meal called the iftar. They then go out and visit family and friends.
On the 27th day of the month of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate the Al-Qadr, or Night of Power. This is the night on which Allah delivered the Quran to Muhammad. And, the Quran says, it is on this night that Allah determines the course of the world for the next year.
In all, Ramadan is usually a quiet time, spent mostly in prayer and inner thoughts. Nightly meals are usually quiet gatherings. The focus is on faith. |
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It
is common during Ramadan for Muslims to pray many times
during the day or the night. Prayers are said at least five
times a day, and Ramadan prayers (called Taraweeh)
are usually much longer than ordinary prayers.
After
an entire month, Ramadan ends with the feast of Eid-Ul-Fitr.
Friends and families get together for large meals and
togetherness. Some cities have large celebrations.
Social Studies for Kids
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David White