Muslims across the world are preparing to observe the holy month of Ramadan, which will commence on Saturday, as confirmed by religious authorities in various countries.
Global Confirmation of the Start of Ramadan
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia announced that the crescent moon had been sighted, confirming Saturday as the first day of Ramadan. The official Saudi Press Agency reported:
“The Supreme Court has declared that tomorrow, Saturday, marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.”
Several Arab nations, including Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Libya, Palestine, Sudan, and Tunisia, have also confirmed that Ramadan will start on the same day.
Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, will also begin fasting on Saturday. Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar confirmed the date after Islamic astronomy observers in the country’s Aceh province spotted the crescent moon.
However, some countries will observe Ramadan on Sunday instead. Iran has declared that fasting will begin a day later, and Morocco, despite being a Sunni-majority nation, has also announced Sunday as the first day of the holy month.
The Significance and Traditions of Ramadan
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, prayer, and fasting, observed by Muslims worldwide. The fast, which lasts from dawn to sunset, involves abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and other indulgences.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is intended to encourage self-discipline, gratitude, and empathy for those less fortunate. Alongside fasting, Muslims are encouraged to engage in charity, prayer, and acts of kindness. Avoiding gossip, arguments, and negative behaviors is also emphasized.
The pre-dawn meal, known as Suhoor, and the meal to break the fast, called Iftar, are significant daily rituals. Families and communities often gather for Iftar, which traditionally begins with eating dates and water, followed by a larger meal.
Cultural Ramadan Traditions Around the World
Each country has unique customs for celebrating Ramadan. In Indonesia, people participate in parades and clean graves to honor deceased loved ones. In Middle Eastern nations, markets and streets come alive with decorations, lanterns, and traditional sweets. Many families also purchase new clothes in preparation for Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan.
The fasting period serves as a reminder of the struggles of the poor and aims to strengthen faith and devotion among believers.
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