Ramadan Dawn: A Month of Reflection Begins Tonight

NEW YORK, USA — The Muslim holiday of Ramadan begins tonight, Feb. 28, and lasts until March 29, marking a sacred time for introspection, prayer, and community.

During this monthlong observance, Muslims worldwide engage in fasting from sunrise to sunset, which not only includes abstaining from food and drink but also from negative behaviors such as gossip and arguing. The fasting is intended to cultivate spiritual awareness, known as Taqwa in Arabic. Imam Ebad Rahman, religious life associate for Muslim life at Columbia University, emphasized the purpose of this practice, stating, “The idea is to cultivate awareness of God.”

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holy month of fasting. According to tradition, it was during Ramadan that the Qurʾān, the Muslim holy book, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad on a significant night known as the “Night of Power,” or “Laylat al-Qadr.” Typically marked during the last ten evenings of Ramadan, this night is most commonly commemorated on the 27th.

This year, Ramadan is expected to span from the evening of Feb. 28 until March 29, 2025. Notably, the start of Ramadan varies each year due to its alignment with the lunar calendar, which is roughly 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar used in much of the world.

Muslims who have reached puberty and are physically capable are required to fast. Exceptions are made for individuals who are sick, pregnant, or nursing, while children may partake in symbolic fasting at their discretion.

The fast encourages Muslims to engage in a more serious study of the Qurʾān, with many devotees using this time to deepen their spiritual connection and understanding. Alongside fasting, many Muslims also participate in communal meals known as Iftars, breaking the fast at sunset. These gatherings often include families and friends, and sometimes are open to the wider community.

For those wishing to support their Muslim colleagues or friends during Ramadan, Imam Rahman recommends goodwill gestures like extended wishes of “Ramadan Mubarak,” meaning “Blessed Ramadan,” or “Ramadan Kareem,” meaning “Generous Ramadan.” This is especially considerate since those observing the holiday will be fasting throughout the day.

Plans for meals or gatherings should take into account the fasting schedules of Muslim friends, with evening events being more appropriate. If invited to an Iftar, it is customary and kind to accept the invitation and consider bringing a dish to share.

As Ramadan concludes, it ushers in one of the major holidays of the Islamic calendar: Eid Al-Fitr, or the Festival of Breaking the Fast, which starts around March 29, depending on the lunar cycle. This three-day festival is marked by special prayers, sharing of sweets, gifts for children, and various community festivities.

The spirit of Ramadan fosters a sense of community, generosity, and shared experiences, bridging gaps among diverse populations and encouraging mutual respect.