Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
In 2024 Ramadan approximately takes place from Monday, March 11 to Tuesday, April 9 (the start and end date may differ by 1 or 2 days depending on how people choose to observe the month).
From sunrise to sunset, adult Muslims who are able to fast abstain from:
- Consuming food
- Drinking liquids
- Smoking
- Engaging in sexual activity
Muslims are also instructed to refrain from behavior that may negate the reward of fasting, such as insulting, backbiting, cursing, lying, etc.
The most established greeting for this holy month is ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ – which translates to mean either ‘blessed Ramadan’ or ‘happy Ramadan.’ Another way to greet someone during Ramadan is to say ‘Ramadan Kareem’ – which means ‘may Ramadan be generous to you.’
