Ramadan 2017: Facts, Fasting Rules, Quotes, History & More

Every year, Ramadan is observed on a different day. In 2017, people of the Muslim faith will celebrate the month-long holiday starting on the evening of Friday, May 26 until Saturday, June 24.

History

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The annual event is one of the Five Pillars Of Islam. The actual word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which means extreme heat or dryness.

Facts

The beginning and end of Ramada is determined by the lunar Islamic calendar. The moon is used to determine the beginning of Ramadan. The "night of power" is the holiest night of the year for those of Muslim faith. This is the night that is believed to be the first revelation of the Quran. The end of Ramadan comes at the beginning of the next lunar month. The first day of the following month is determined after another crescent new moon is seen. The month lasts 29 to 30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon.

Fasting Rules

All Muslim adults fast throughout the month except those who are sick, elder pregnant, diabetic, breastfeeding or traveling. Fasting occurs from dawn until sunset as they refrain from consuming food, liquids, smoking and sexual activities. Food and drink are consumed before dawn and after sunset. Rewards for fasting during Ramadan believe to multiply during this month. Fasting is said to redirect the heart away from things going on around them and in the world, it is believed to cleanse the soul by freeing it from impurities that may harm it. The act of fasting also serves as a lesson of practicing self-discipline and self-control as well as sacrificing oneself and feeling empathy for those less fortunate.

Quotes

"Allah is with those who restrain themselves." (Quran 16: 128)

“Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the fire." (Ahmad, Sahee)

“Jesus said “ and indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord so worship him” (Quran 19:36)

“Ramadhan is here, Here is Ramadhan. Ramadhan is coming, The time that is blessed. Ramadhan is coming, The time we love best. The month in which the Qur'an was sent; A time of great blessing in which to repent. Fasting for Allah is a great Muslim deed; Controlling desires and Suppressing greed." (Zeeshan G.)

"O believers, fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you. So that you may become righteous." (Surah Al- Baqara Ayah 483)

"Even if all the trees on earth were pens, and the ocean inks, with seven more oceans added to it, the words of Allah would not be exhausted: for Allah is infinite in power and wisdom" (Quran 31:27)

"Ramadan is the month whose beginning is mercy, whose middle is forgiveness and whose end is freedom from fire." (Prophet Mohammad)