Ramadan:

The 411 on Fasting

As a Muslim in America, I come across a number of people who inquire about my faith. I'm asked questions like why I don't cover my hair like many Muslim women or why I can't eat pork. However, I seem to encounter the most questions during the month of Ramadan when I try to explain to people why I can't eat lunch with them. You can't eat at all? Can you at least drink water? What time do you get to eat? What happens if you're sick? People are often so concerned about the fact that I'm deprived of food that they fail to ask about the story behind Ramadan.

Currently Muslims all around the globe are fasting, like myself, for the holy month of Ramadan. According to the Muslim American Society, African-Americans make up 42% of the Muslim population in the U.S. However, despite the significant percentage there are many African-Americans -- and Americans in general -- who still have a vague idea about the significance of this holiday. Have no fear, Black Voices is here! Prepare to be enlightened as Black Voices sheds light on Ramadan and gives you the 411 on fasting and what it's all about.


What is so special about the month of Ramadan?

In this month it is believed that the Islamic holy book, the Qur'an, was revealed to Prophet Muhammad by Angel Gabriel. Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims are encouraged to focus on their faith and to be less consumed in their every day routine.

Why do Muslims fast?

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five main requirements in Islam. In the duration of fasting, Muslims are not allowed to eat or drink anything from dawn to sunset. That includes water people! Fasting is meant to teach one self discipline, humility, sacrifice as well as sympathy for those who are less fortunate. Fasting is believed to cleanse the soul and those who participate seek a raised level of closeness to God. In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to read the Qur'an during Ramadan. Each day a whole section (1/30) of the Qur'an is read during special prayers each night at the Mosque. By the end of Ramadan all 30 sections will have been completed. Muslims are also expected to give Zakat (charity) to those who are less fortunate.

How do you break your fast?

At sunset Muslims typically break their fast by eating three dates and drinking water after reciting a prayer. Afterwards they are free to eat whatever they want until sunrise the next day.

Does everyone have to fast?

All able Muslims are expected to fast, however some people are exempt. Children are excused from fasting until they reach puberty. Those who are traveling long distances are not required to fast. Women who are pregnant are exempt from fasting as well as women who are menstruating. Of course if you are ill or extremely old you are not expected to fast either.

What happens if you miss a day of fasting?

Any days that are you were not able to fast due to sickness or menstruation, are expected to be 'made up'. After Ramadan is over you are expected to fast for however many days you weren't able to do so during Ramadan. These make-up days can be done any time during the year.

Why does Ramadan fall on a different date every year?

Islam follows a lunar calendar. Unlike our solar calendar there are only 354 days in a lunar year. Ramadan is the ninth month in the calendar and is actually a set date every year. However due to the calendar being 11 days short; it falls 11 days earlier each year on the solar calendar.

How long is the month of Ramadan?

The month of Ramadan lasts about 29 to 30 days. On the 28th night, religious leaders check for the sighting of the new moon. If it is seen, then Ramadan concludes. If the moon is not seen Muslims then fast for one more night.

Do Muslims do anything special to mark the end of Ramadan?

Ramadan wouldn't be complete without a celebration! Eid-al-Fitr which means the 'Festival of Breaking the Fast' follows the month of Ramadan. A special celebration is made for Eid that lasts three days. Muslims put on their best clothes and come together in the morning for communal prayer. After prayer family and friends rejoice for food, celebration and the exchanging of gifts. Eid marks the beginning of the new month in the lunar calendar.