Ramadan Mubarak From The Media Line!
Nearly 2 billion Muslims globally are set to observe Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, which is anticipated to start on March 10 or 11, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. This month is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, commemorating the month when Muslims believe the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are core beliefs and practices that include the profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting, and pilgrimage.
The lunar-based Islamic calendar dictates the start of Ramadan with the sighting of the crescent moon. This results in Ramadan starting approximately 10 to 12 days earlier each year relative to the Gregorian calendar. For the year 2024, Ramadan is anticipated to end on either April 9 or April 10.
The confirmation of the moon sighting varies by region, with countries like Saudi Arabia requiring testimonies to the Supreme Court to decide the onset of Ramadan. Nevertheless, technological progress and international cooperation provide valuable information on the expected visibility of the moon. According to data, the new moon of Ramadan in 2024 will technically start on March 10 at 5:23 p.m. UTC, but visibility with the naked eye may not occur until the following night, affecting the start date of Ramadan across different countries.
During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. The meal before dawn is termed suhoor, while the meal that breaks the fast after sunset is called iftar. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Eid al-Fitr, a festive time of family, friends, gift-giving, and charity. Exemptions from fasting include the elderly, the young, the sick, pregnant or breastfeeding women, menstruating women, and travelers, although they are expected to fast at a later time.
The Media Line is committed to bringing you stories that matter during this holy month and beyond. We hope this Ramadan fills your life and that of your loved ones with blessings, peace, and happiness.
Ramadan Kareem!
