Ramadan

28^th February until 30^th March.

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims won’t eat or drink during the hours of daylight. This is called fasting. Children are not expected to fast until they reach puberty, usually around the age of 14.

Ramadan remembers the month the Qur’an (the Muslim holy book) was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The actual night that the Qur’an was revealed is a night known as Lailut ul-Qadr (‘The Night of Power’).

When is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The exact dates of Ramadan change every year. This is because Islam uses a calendar based on the cycles of the Moon.

Most Muslims fast between dawn and sunset.

Fasting allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith.

It is thought to teach self-discipline and reminds them of the suffering of the poor.

However, children, pregnant women, elderly people and those who are ill or travelling don’t have to fast.

During Ramadan, it is common to have one meal (known as the suhoor), just before dawn and another (known as the iftar), directly after sunset.