Ramadan Mubarak!
Tonight, the crescent moon has been sighted, and Ramadan officially begins. Across the world, Muslims are preparing for a month of reflection, connection, and celebration.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar, which follows the lunar cycle. Each month begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. Because the lunar year is about 10-11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar, Ramadan begins earlier each year, moving gradually through the seasons.
Fasting from dawn (Suhoor) to sunset (Iftar) is one of the central practices of Ramadan and forms part of the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm. But fasting is more than abstaining from food and drink. It is a spiritual practice meant to cultivate:
• Self-discipline and patience
• Gratitude for the little things in life
• Compassion and generosity toward others
• Reflection and connection to faith, family, and community
Many Muslims also devote extra time during Ramadan to prayer, Quran recitation, and charitable acts. These practices vary by country, culture, and family tradition, creating a rich tapestry of ways Ramadan is observed around the globe.
Customs and Traditions
Breaking the Fast (Iftar):
The fast is broken at sunset with a date and a glass of water, followed by the Maghrib prayer, and then a larger meal with family or community. Iftar is often a celebratory moment, with dishes that vary by region and culture.
Suhoor:
The pre-dawn meal, eaten before the day’s fast begins, is often quiet and reflective. It’s a time to prepare for the day ahead and connect spiritually before sunrise. The time of suhoor ends when the Imam calls for the Fajr prayer. This is when the new fast starts.
Tarawih Prayers:
The special nightly prayer of Ramadan is called Tarawih. This prayer can be performed at home or in masjids (mosques) after Iftar. These prayers offer a space for reflection and worship, often including the recitation of long portions of the Quran. Masjids usually finish the entirety of the Quran during the month of Ramadan.
Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power):
This is one of the most important nights in Ramadan, as it commemorates when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and this night carries immense blessings and spiritual significance.
Charity and Giving:
Ramadan is a time for generosity. Many Muslims pay Zakat al-Fitr, donate to those in need, or perform acts of kindness within their communities.
Cultural Celebrations:
Ramadan is celebrated differently around the world. In some countries, streets and homes are decorated with lanterns and lights, markets offer seasonal treats, and families gather for communal meals. These traditions highlight how diverse and joyful Ramadan can be beyond its spiritual dimensions.
Food:
Food plays a central role in Ramadan. Iftar and Suhoor are opportunities to share stories, laughter, and memories with loved ones.
How to support your fasting peers
Even if you don't observe Ramadan, you can participate and support friends in meaningful ways:
• Respect their fasting and routines without judgement.
• Some people prefer it if you avoid eating or drinking in front of them while they are fasting, others don't mind. The best solution is to ask your peers what they prefer.
• Include them in activities and celebrations that fit their schedules.
• Share well wishes like "Ramadan Mubarak" (Have a blessed Ramadan) or "Ramadan Kareem" (Have a generous Ramadan).
• Decorate spaces for Ramadan! If you tend to decorate your workspace for other holidays, then decorating for Ramadan can be highly appreciated as it shows your Muslim coworkers that you see them and cherish them.
Summary:
• Ramadan 2026 has begun tonight.
• Muslims around the world are marking the start of this holy month with fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness.
• Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a time for community, family gatherings, cultural traditions, and generosity.
• There are several ways to support your fasting peers, such as respecting their routines without judgement, including them in activities that fit their schedules, and taking time to decorate a shared space for Ramadan.
We wish you a blessed Ramadan!
Ramadan Mubarak!
With love,
The Inclusivity Group
