Ramadan – The glory of Islam
Following the sighting of the crescent by the moon-sighting committee, Saudi Arabia has announced that the first day of fasting will be Monday, March 11.
There are about 1.9 billion Muslims around the world, approximately 25 percent of the world population. Indonesia has the world’s highest Muslim population, with some 240 million Muslims living in the country.
Pakistan is second with about 225 million Muslims, followed by India (211 million), Bangladesh (155 million), and Nigeria (111 million).
As the crescent moon marks the beginning of Ramadan, Muslims around the world embark on a sacred journey of reflection, devotion, and fasting. This holiest month in the Islamic calendar is a time for spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and communal unity.
Ramadan sayings in different languages
The month begins with the sighting of the new moon and is usually followed by a rush of greetings to welcome the new month. Various Muslim-majority nations have personalised greetings in their native languages.
Among the most common sayings are “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem”. These are Arabic sayings that translate to “blessed Ramadan” and “generous Ramadan”.
Greetings are not limited to the spoken language. They also extend to sign language and Braille. Some countries have their version of sign language, but placing one hand horizontally across the mouth is common among most to represent fasting.
From dawn till dusk, believers abstain from food, drink, and other worldly pleasures, focusing instead on prayer, charity, and acts of kindness. It is a time of heightened spirituality, as individuals seek forgiveness, draw closer to Allah, and strengthen their bonds with family and community.
As the month unfolds, mosques come alive with the recitation of the Quran, and the streets bustle with the excitement of shared iftars (breaking of the fast) and special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh.
Ramadan is not only a time of personal growth but also a global celebration of faith, solidarity, and compassion among Muslims worldwide.