When does Ramadan begin? What to know about the month-long period of fasting for Muslims
Ramadan has begun in the United States and will run through 20 April. What you need to know about the important Muslim holiday.
This year, Ramadan, the month-long Muslim holiday, will begin on 22 March.
The celebration will run through 20 April, during which many believers must observe a severe fast, both from food and drink. After the sighting of the first quarter of the Moon, this very significant holiday begins.
Ramadan, the holy month of the Muslim religion
First of all, we must define what Ramadan is. The ninth month of the calendar in the Islamic religion is considered the sacred period of time for this community. This event honors the revelation of the first texts of the Koran, the holy book, from Allah to his prophet, Muhammad. During this event, some believers choose to fast from dawn to dusk. Also, during this time, Muslims are encouraged to perform prayers, read the holy book, and do charitable works.
The dates of Ramadan, from March 23 to April 21
Keep in mind that Ramadan usually lasts around 30 days. That is a full month. However, it is worth mentioning that these dates usually vary due to the phases of the moon. In 2023, in the US, the scheduled dates for this event to take place range from March 22 to April 20.
This sacred month usually begins the day after the Moon sighting committee, located in Saudi Arabia, spots this element, and it is in the first quarter phase. This is when Ramadan officially begins.
Hours vary depending on the area
Another of the most important details that must be taken into account about the holy month for the Muslim community is directly related to the hours in which it occurs. Various factors influence, such as the place on the planet where the believer in question is located. Likewise, the daily fasting that must be carried out or the prayers that must be carried out also have an important weight in the schedules that must be followed.
April 20, closing date of Ramadan
This 2023 Ramadan will end on April 20, a day known as ‘Eid al-Fitr.’ During this party, it is very common to use the expression ‘Eid Mubarak.’ This message can be sent to Muslim friends who celebrate in a similar way to wishing people “happy holidays.” For more than a day, it is usually carried out, but it can vary depending on different factors. Moreover, this day can be extended up to three days.
This celebration begins in the mosque, a place of prayer, during the early hours of the day. After praying, the Ramadan fast is fulfilled. Likewise, it is worth mentioning that families and friends gather to enjoy traditional gastronomy.