Ramadan 2024: Fasting, Feasts, and Global Unity Amidst Conflict

2025-02-28 18:01:01.266

Observant Muslims worldwide will observe Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. It is a time of increased worship, religious reflection, charity, and good deeds, often bringing families and friends together in festive gatherings. Ramadan is followed by Eid al-Fitr. This year, Ramadan begins around March 1st and its start date may vary slightly based on moon sightings. Fasting, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn till sunset. Exemptions exist for illness or travel. Ramadan is marked by increased mosque attendance, Quran recitation, and charitable giving, including providing iftar meals for the needy. Cultural traditions vary widely, from the mesaharati's pre-dawn calls in Egypt to communal feasts in Indonesia and festive markets in India. Concerns exist regarding the commercialization of Ramadan, but many see a balance between religious observance and festive celebrations. This year, Ramadan occurs amidst the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and significant political changes in the Middle East, such as the fall of the Syrian government.