Ramadan Begins

Ramadan Begins is observed on the sighting of the first crescent moon of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. In 2026, it falls on February 18. This holy month is a period of deep spiritual reflection, communal prayer, and fasting for Muslims worldwide. Because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, the dates move backward by approximately 11 days each year in the Gregorian calendar. The official start depends on the visual confirmation of the moon, which can lead to slight variations in dates across different geographical regions.

History of Ramadan Begins

The history of Ramadan dates back to 610 AD, when the Prophet Muhammad was meditating in the Cave of Hira near Mecca. It was during this time that the angel Gabriel is believed to have appeared and revealed the first verses of the Quran, the holy book of Islam. This specific event, known as Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power, occurred during the final ten days of the month. In 624 AD, two years after the migration to Medina, the obligation for healthy adult Muslims to fast for the entire month was formally established by divine decree.

Historically, the month was named “Ramadan” from the Arabic root “ar-ramad,” which refers to scorching heat or dryness. This likely reflected the season in which the month originally fell during the pre-Islamic solar calendar. Over centuries, the observance evolved from a regional Arabian tradition into a global pillar of faith. It became a time not only for individual piety but also for marking significant historical milestones, such as the Battle of Badr and the later conquest of Mecca, both of which occurred during the month of Ramadan.

Why is Ramadan Begins important?

The beginning of Ramadan marks the start of one of the Five Pillars of Islam, known as Sawm. Fasting is a mandatory act of worship for capable adults, requiring total abstinence from food and liquids from dawn until sunset. This practice is intended to cultivate self-discipline and Taqwa, or God-consciousness. By experiencing hunger and thirst, participants gain a deeper empathy for those who live in poverty and lack access to basic necessities, reinforcing the importance of social justice and charity.

Beyond the physical fast, the month serves as a comprehensive spiritual reset. Muslims are encouraged to refrain from negative speech, anger, and immoral behavior, focusing instead on patience and purification of the soul. It is a time when families and communities strengthen their bonds through shared meals and long nightly prayers. The month acts as a unifying force for nearly two billion people across the globe, all moving through a shared rhythm of devotion regardless of their local culture or language.

• Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam alongside prayer and charity.
• The month commemorates the first revelation of the Quran to humanity.
• It encourages Zakat, or obligatory almsgiving, to support those in need.
• Self-restraint during the fast helps build mental and spiritual fortitude.
• Communal worship during the month fosters a sense of global unity.

How to Observe Ramadan Begins

Observing the start of Ramadan involves preparing for the daily fasting routine and increasing religious engagement. Each day begins with Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal that provides the necessary energy and hydration for the hours ahead. Once the sun rises, the fast remains in place until the Maghrib prayer at sunset. It is traditional to break the fast, a meal known as Iftar, with odd numbers of dates and water, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad.

Many people use the beginning of the month to set goals for reading the entire Quran. Special nightly prayers called Tarawih are held at mosques, where long portions of the scripture are recited in a communal setting. Beyond the rituals, observers focus on “Sadaqah,” or voluntary acts of kindness, such as feeding the hungry or helping neighbors. Preparing the home with lanterns and decorations can also help children and families feel the festive and sacred spirit that characterizes this unique time of year.

• Wake up early to consume a nutritious Suhoor meal before the first light.
• Break the fast at sunset with dates and a glass of water or milk.
• Attend nightly Tarawih prayers at a local mosque for communal worship.
• Dedicate time each day to reciting and reflecting on the verses of the Quran.
• Increase charitable donations and participate in community service projects.