What's happened
Muslims around the world have begun observing the holy month of Ramadan, a period of deep spiritual reflection and fasting. The fasting month began on the evening of Sunday, March 10, and will end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Muslims gather in prayer, Quranic reading, and mindfulness to make the most out of the fasting month, which is celebrated in various ways globally.
Why it matters
The start of Ramadan is a significant event for the 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, marking a period of deep spiritual reflection, fasting, and increased devotion to God. The observance of Ramadan brings families and communities together, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity. It is a time for self-discipline, empathy, and charitable acts, emphasizing the values of compassion and generosity.
What the papers say
The Independent provides insights into the cultural significance of Ramadan, highlighting the rituals and practices observed by Muslims during this holy month. Al Jazeera offers a global perspective, discussing the diversity of Muslim populations worldwide and the variations in Ramadan observances. The articles underscore the importance of fasting, prayer, and reflection during Ramadan, emphasizing its role as a pillar of Islam and a time for spiritual growth.
How we got here
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset as an act of worship and obedience to God. The fasting month is one of the five pillars of Islam, along with faith, prayer, charity, and pilgrimage. Ramadan commemorates the Quran being revealed to the Prophet Muhammad and serves as a time for self-discipline, reflection, and increased devotion to God.
More on these topics
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Ramadan, also spelled Ramazan, Ramzan, Ramadhan or Ramathan, is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.
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Eid al-Fitr, also called the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan.
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Muhammad was an Arab religious, social, and political leader and the founder of Islam. According to Islamic doctrine, he was a prophet, sent to preach and confirm the monotheistic teachings of Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and other prophets.
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The Quran, also romanized Qur'an or Koran, is the central religious text of Islam, believed by Muslims to be a revelation from God. It is widely regarded as the finest work in classical Arabic literature.