Ramadan Kareem: Saudi Arabia Determines Start
Date for Holy Month
Ramadan 2024: Fasting Around the World
Ramadan, a sacred month in the Islamic calendar, holds immense significance for millions of Muslims around the world. As we approach the year 2024, it is important to understand the start and duration of Ramadan, the variation in fasting hours worldwide, and the cultural observances associated with this holy month. In this article, I will delve into these topics and provide answers to frequently asked questions about Ramadan.
Ramadan Start and Duration
Ramadan is known for its variation in start dates each year. This is due to the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the sighting of the moon. In 2024, based on the announcement by the moon-sighting committee in Saudi Arabia, the first day of fasting will be Monday, March 11. The duration of fasting during Ramadan can be anywhere from 12 to 17 hours, depending on the geographical location of Muslims around the world.
Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month when the first verses of the holy book, the Quran, were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad more than 1,400 years ago. Fasting during this period involves abstinence from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations from dawn until sunset. This practice is aimed at achieving greater "taqwa," or consciousness of God.
Why Ramadan starts on different dates
The next time Ramadan will start after March 12 will be 33 years from now, in the year 2057. This constant shifting of Ramadan dates adds to the spiritual and cultural significance of the month.
Variation in fasting hours worldwide
In extreme northern cities like Longyearbyen in Norway, where the sun does not set from April 20 to August 22, Muslims follow the timings in Mecca or the nearest Muslim country. This exception allows Muslims living in regions with prolonged daylight to observe their fasts correctly.
Fasting Hours Across the World
Understanding the geographical variation in fasting hours during Ramadan sheds light on the diverse experiences of Muslims worldwide. Let's explore how daylight hours differ across different regions.
Northern Hemisphere vs. Southern Hemisphere fasting
Reykjavik, Iceland: 16 hours
Helsinki, Finland: 15 hours
Oslo, Norway: 15 hours
Glasgow, Scotland: 15 hours
Berlin, Germany: 15 hours
Dublin, Ireland: 15 hours
Moscow, Russia: 15 hours
Amsterdam, the Netherlands: 15 hours
Warsaw, Poland: 15 hours
Astana, Kazakhstan: 15 hours
Johannesburg, South Africa: 13 hours
Canberra, Australia: 13 hours
Puerto Montt, Chile: 13 hours
Christchurch, New Zealand: 13 hours
These variations exist due to the differing lengths of daylight hours in different parts of the world.
Cities with longest and shortest fasting hours
Amongst the cities worldwide, some experience longer fasting hours during Ramadan. The cities with the longest fasting periods include Nuuk, Greenland; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Helsinki, Finland, all with fasting durations of 15 to 16 hours.
Dubai, UAE: 13-14 hours
Cairo, Egypt: 13-14 hours
Islamabad, Pakistan: 14 hours
Beijing, China: 14 hours
London, UK: 14 hours
These variations offer a glimpse into the diverse experiences of Muslims during Ramadan worldwide.
International Iftar Times
Iftar, the meal to break the fast after sunset, holds immense significance during Ramadan. The timing of iftar varies based on the geographical location of different cities worldwide.
Similar iftar times for cities along the same longitude
To visualize this phenomenon, refer to the infographic below, which displays cities having suhoor while others have their iftar.
[Infographic goes here]
Ramadan Cultural Observances
During Ramadan, Muslims across the world engage in various cultural observances that are deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality. Let's explore some of these practices.
Ramadan greetings in different languages
As Ramadan is celebrated globally, various Muslim-majority nations have their own personalized greetings in their native languages. The most common greetings exchanged during this period are "Ramadan Mubarak" and "Ramadan Kareem." The former is used to wish others a blessed month, while the latter conveys the hope for a generous month.
Significance of fasting in Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the fundamental acts of worship for Muslims. Muslims observe fasting from dawn until sunset to achieve Taqwa, a state of increased consciousness and closeness to God. The practice of fasting helps individuals develop self-discipline, empathy, and gratitude, while also reminding them of the importance of charity and community.
Recommended activities during Ramadan
FAQs
To address common questions about Ramadan, let's examine some frequently asked queries related to the start and celebration of Ramadan in the year 2024.
When is Ramadan 2024 expected to begin in Saudi Arabia?
Based on the official announcement by the moon-sighting committee, Ramadan is expected to begin in Saudi Arabia on Monday, March 11, 2024.
What is the significance of Ramadan in Saudi Ara- bia and around the world?
Ramadan holds deep cultural and religious significance in Saudi Arabia and around the world. It is a time for introspection, self-discipline, and spiritual growth. The month is also marked by increased acts of charity and community engagement.
Where can I find the Ramadan timetable for 2024 in Saudi Arabia?
The Ramadan timetable for 2024 in Saudi Arabia can be found on local Islamic organizations' websites, mosques, and through official religious authorities.
What are the important dates to remember during Ramadan in 2024?
Aside from the start of Ramadan on March 11, 2024, there are several other dates of significance. These include Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, which is considered the holiest night of the year. It is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Additionally, Eid-al-Fitr, the festive celebration marking the end of Ramadan, falls on April 9, 2024.
As we approach Ramadan 2024, let us embrace this sacred month with gratitude and reflection. It is a time to deepen our spiritual connections, engage in acts of kindness, and foster unity among all individuals. May this Ramadan bring peace, blessings, and fulfillment to all Muslims around the world.
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