“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.” [2:185]
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Healthy adult Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan from dawn until dusk. Therefore this includes abstaining from drinking, eating, immoral acts and anger. Other acts of worship such as prayer, reading the Quran and charity are also encouraged during the holy month.
When is Ramadan 2024?
This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on 10th March 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon. You can find up-to-date information on the Ramadan timetable.
When does Ramadan start?
Ramadan officially begins when the month of Islamic month of Shaban ends, and the new moon of Ramadan is sighted.
When does Ramadan end?
Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim celebration officially marks the end of Ramadan. The exact timing is based on the sighting of the moon. Eid al-Fitr officially begins at the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
What happens if you miss a fast during Ramadan?
If you’ve missed any fasts out of necessity and will never be able to fast to make up the lost days afterwards, you’re required to pay fidya (fidyah). For any other missed fasts you will need to make them up. For any fasts broken deliberately without need in the Hanafi madhab you would need to make up the fast and also pay kaffarah. In the Hanbali and Shafi madhabs you would need to make up the fast and only pay kaffarah if it was broken by marital relations.
Ramadan Sadaqah
The Prophet (PBUH) would give charity throughout the year but increase his sadaqah during Ramadan. Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said, “The Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous of people, and he was most generous during Ramadan.” (Bukhari)
