When Does Ramadan Fasting in United States Start

The start date of Ramadan in the United States varies each year, as it is determined by the sighting of the new moon. However, it typically begins a day after the start of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia.

For the year 2023, Ramadan is expected to start on the evening of April 1st and continue until the evening of April 30th. However, please note that the exact date and timing may vary based on the sighting of the moon, so it is always best to check with local Islamic organizations or authorities for the official start date in your area.

What You Should Know About Ramadan Fasting

Ramadan fasting is an important religious observance for Muslims around the world. Here are a few things you should know about it:

1. Purpose: The main purpose of Ramadan fasting is to develop self-discipline, self-control, and empathy towards those who are less fortunate. It is also believed to bring spiritual and mental benefits, such as increased focus on prayer, reflection, and mindfulness.

2. Timing: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and lasts for 29 or 30 days. Fasting during Ramadan requires abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. It is mandatory for all able-bodied Muslims who have reached puberty, except for certain groups such as children, pregnant women, and those who are ill.

3. Pre-dawn Meal: Muslims who are fasting wake up early in the morning before dawn to eat a pre-dawn meal called suhoor, which is meant to provide energy for the day ahead.

4. Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called iftar, which is usually shared with family and friends. Muslims often break their fast with dates and water, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad.

5. Spiritual Practices: During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to engage in extra prayers, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity. It is also a time for personal reflection and self-improvement.

6. Conclusion: Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a three-day festival that marks the end of the fasting month. Muslims attend special prayers and often celebrate with family and friends, exchanging gifts and sharing meals.

Overall, Ramadan fasting is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and community building for Muslims around the world.

For Whom is Ramadan Obligatory?

Ramadan fasting is obligatory for all able-bodied adult Muslims who have reached puberty. This includes both men and women who are physically and mentally capable of observing the fast.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, those who are ill, pregnant or nursing, elderly, or traveling may be exempt from fasting or allowed to make up their missed fasts at a later time.

Additionally, those who are unable to fast due to a permanent medical condition or who have a valid reason such as menstruation, postpartum bleeding, or illness, are also exempt from fasting. Instead, they may offer fidyah, which is a donation to feed a person in need for each day of missed fast.

It is important to note that Ramadan fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and is considered a fundamental part of the Muslim faith. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that Muslims who are able to observe the fast should do so, as it is a means of developing self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual connection.

Prohibition For People Who are Fasting

During Ramadan fasting, Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual activity from dawn until sunset. However, there are also some other prohibitions that Muslims are expected to observe during this month. These include:

1. Gossiping, backbiting, and engaging in any form of negative speech or behavior.

2. Engaging in any kind of immoral or unethical behavior, such as lying, cheating, or stealing.

3. Arguing or engaging in any kind of verbal or physical altercation.

4. Engaging in any kind of entertainment or leisure activities that distract from the spiritual focus of the month.

5. Neglecting prayer or other religious obligations.

Overall, Ramadan is a time for Muslims to focus on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and personal development. Therefore, it is important to avoid any actions or behaviors that may distract from these goals or undermine the spirit of the month.