Ramadan for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you are a new Muslim, supporting a Muslim friend or colleague, or simply curious, this guide covers everything you need to know about Ramadan — the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

What Is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs.

Why Do Muslims Fast?

Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It serves multiple purposes:

• Spiritual discipline — Drawing closer to Allah through self-control
• Empathy — Understanding the experience of those who go hungry
• Gratitude — Appreciating the blessings we often take for granted
• Community — Shared experience that strengthens the Muslim community

The Daily Routine

Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)

Muslims wake before dawn to eat Suhoor — a meal that provides energy for the day ahead. The fast begins at Fajr (dawn prayer).

The Fasting Day

From dawn to sunset, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking (including water), smoking, and intimate relations. Normal daily activities — work, school, exercise — continue as usual.

Iftar (Breaking the Fast)

At sunset, Muslims break their fast with Iftar. Following the Sunnah, most start with dates and water before eating a full meal. Many families and communities gather for communal iftars.

Who Is Exempt from Fasting?

• Children before puberty
• Elderly people for whom fasting is harmful
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (if it poses a risk)
• Travellers
• Those who are ill (temporary or chronic)
• Women during menstruation

Charity in Ramadan

Ramadan is the most generous month. Muslims are encouraged to give charity abundantly, with rewards multiplied during this blessed time. Common forms include:

• Zakat — Obligatory annual charity (2.5% of wealth)
• Sadaqah — Voluntary charity in any amount
• Fidya — Compensation for those unable to fast

Laylatul Qadr — The Night of Power

Laylatul Qadr is the most blessed night of the year, described in the Quran as "better than a thousand months." It falls in the last ten nights of Ramadan and is a time of intense worship and giving.

How to Support Ramadan as a Non-Muslim

• Be understanding of colleagues who are fasting
• Accept invitations to community iftars
• Learn about the significance of the month
• Consider donating to Ramadan charity campaigns

Get Involved This Ramadan

Explore our Ramadan 2026 projects and see how your support can transform lives around the world.

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