New Delhi: Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. Observed through
fasting from dawn to dusk, it commemorates the revelation of the Quran and encourages devotion, reflection, and charity. Beyond the fast, Ramadan encompasses centuries of rich traditions, spanning over 1,400 years. From pre-Islamic atonement fasting to 10th-century Egyptian fanoos lanterns and the 15th-century custom of iftar cannons, these practices unite Muslims globally in a shared spiritual journey.
Daily rituals, such as the pre-dawn Suhoor and the evening Iftar, structure life throughout the month, while sunnah practices like breaking the fast with dates connect worshippers to centuries of history. Ramadan shifts each year due to the lunar calendar, offering a cycle of experiences through all seasons. As Ramadan 2026 approaches on the evening of February 17, depending on the moon’s sighting, understanding these facts enriches appreciation for the month’s spiritual depth, historic customs, and cultural vibrancy.
Key facts about Ramadan every Muslim should know
1. Etymology of Ramadan
The word “Ramadan” comes from the Arabic root “ramida” or “ar-ramad,” meaning scorching heat or dryness, reflecting the intense summer months during which the fast was first observed.
2. Pre-Islamic roots
Fasting existed in Arabia before Islam; pre-Islamic Arabs in Mecca observed fasts on the 10th day of Muharram to seek atonement and divine favour.
3. Shifting seasons
As the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan begins roughly 11 days earlier each year, rotating through all seasons over a 33-year cycle.
4. Suhoor and Iftar
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins, while Iftar, the evening meal, marks the breaking of the day’s fast.
5. Quran revelation
Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad, adding profound spiritual significance to the fast.
6. Iftar cannons
Originating in 15th-century Egypt, these cannons marked the signal for breaking the fast after a sultan accidentally fired one at sunset.
7. Fanoos lanterns
Lanterns, used since the 10th-century Fatimid Dynasty, lit streets and mosques for night prayers and are a lasting Ramadan symbol.
8. Mesaharati drummers
Traditional drummers roam streets before dawn to wake people for Suhoor, keeping an ancient cultural practice alive.
9. Breaking fast with dates
Following sunnah, Muslims often break their fast with dates and water, providing immediate energy after long hours of fasting.
10. Exemptions from fasting
Children, the elderly, travellers, and the sick are excused from fasting, reflecting flexibility within the practice.
11. Night of power
Laylatul Qadr, often the 27th night, commemorates the Quran’s first revelation and is considered the most spiritually significant night of Ramadan.
Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food and drink. It is a time of spiritual reflection, historical traditions, and global unity. Its rituals, customs, and enduring symbolism continue to connect generations of Muslims in devotion and community.
