Ramadan 2025: Your Questions Answered
Ramadan is a time of reflection, devotion, and giving. As Muslims around the world prepare for this sacred month, many have questions about its practices and significance. Here’s everything you need to know about Ramadan 2025.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is a time to grow spiritually and strengthen faith.
When Does Ramadan 2025 Start and End?
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, and end on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025. The exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon.
Why is Ramadan Important in Islam?
Fasting in Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a time for self-discipline, gratitude, and seeking closeness to Allah. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, avoiding food, drink, and sinful behavior while engaging in prayer, charity, and Quranic recitation.
Who is Required to Fast During Ramadan?
All adult Muslims who are physically and mentally able must fast during Ramadan. However, there are exceptions for those who are ill, pregnant, traveling, elderly, or experiencing hardship.
Who is Exempt from Fasting?
Children, the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant and nursing women, travelers, and those who are physically or mentally unable to fast are exempt. However, some must compensate through Fidyah or Kaffarah (see below).
What are Fidyah and Kaffarah?
- Fidyah: If someone is unable to fast due to a long-term illness or old age, they must pay Fidyah by feeding a person in need for each missed fast.
- Kaffarah: If someone deliberately breaks a fast without a valid reason, they must fast for 60 consecutive days or feed 60 people in need as compensation.
You can fulfill your Fidyah and Kaffarah obligations through Muslim Hands USA, ensuring your contribution reaches those most in need.
What is Sadaqah Jariyah?
Sadaqah Jariyah is a form of continuous charity that benefits people for years to come, such as providing clean water, building schools, or supporting orphan care. Giving during Ramadan multiplies your reward, making it an ideal time to contribute.
What are the Daily Fasting Hours?
Fasting begins at Sahur (pre-dawn meal) and ends at Iftar (sunset meal). The hours vary depending on location, so check your local prayer timetable.
What is Sahur and Iftar?
- Sahur: The early morning meal before the fast begins.
- Iftar: The meal at sunset that breaks the fast, often started with dates and water, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
What Are the Key Practices During Ramadan?
- Increased Prayer: Muslims engage in extra prayers, including Taraweeh at night.
- Charity: Donating Sadaqah or Zakat to causes such as food relief, water projects, and orphan sponsorship through Muslim Hands USA.
- Quran Recitation: Many aim to complete reading the Quran during Ramadan.
- Dua and Reflection: Seeking forgiveness and making supplications.
How Can Non-Muslims Show Respect During Ramadan?
- Avoid eating and drinking in front of those fasting.
- Be mindful of reduced energy levels in fasting individuals.
- Greet Muslims with "Ramadan Mubarak" or "Ramadan Kareem.".
What is Eid al-Fitr and How is it Celebrated?
Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, marking the end of Ramadan.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan with communal prayers, festive meals, and giving Zakat al-Fitr—a small donation to the poor before the Eid prayer. It is a time of joy, gratitude, and family gatherings.
How Can I Make the Most of Ramadan?
- Set spiritual goals and track your progress.
- Increase acts of kindness and charity.
- Strengthen your connection with the Quran and prayer.
- Donate through Muslim Hands USA to support those in need.
Ramadan is not just about fasting; it’s a time for self-improvement, community, and giving back. Make this Ramadan meaningful by increasing your worship, showing compassion, and supporting those in need through acts of charity.
