What is Ramadan and How It's Observed

The observance of Ramadan is officially underway.?Here at Favorite Healthcare Staffing, we’d like to say “Ramadan Mubarak” (Happy/Blessed Ramadan) to all the faithful observers and supporters during this sacred time.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting.?It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon.?This year, Ramadan lasts 30 days.?It began on Saturday, April 2nd (at sundown) and lasts until Monday, May 2nd (at sundown).?The dates of Ramadan are dependent on the appearance of the crescent moon and may vary across countries and geographic areas.?It’s estimated that over 1 billion people will observe Ramadan this year.

For Muslims, Ramadan is a period of introspection, communal prayer, and reading of the holy Quran.?By fasting, praying, and having faithful intentions, followers of Islam believe their past sins will be forgiven by God.

How is Ramadan observed?

Ramadan is a time for Muslims to practice self-restraint.?During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to forego food and drink (even water), by fasting from dawn to dusk.?They are also obligated to refrain from any negative behaviors, including unkind thoughts and words. Ramadan is also a month of significant giving. During this time, Muslims donate up to 2.5% of their income to various charities, especially those focused on helping individuals stricken by hunger and poverty.

The month-long fast allows Muslims to seek forgiveness from God and to express their gratitude to God.?It also serves as a sobering reminder of food-deprived individuals from around the world.

While fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for all Muslims who have reached puberty, it is forbidden by certain individuals.?The elderly, those with serious medical conditions, and pregnant or breastfeeding woman are all exempt from fasting.?Those who are ill, or traveling are also given grace from the fast.

Muslims can indeed eat and drink during Ramadan, but only at sundown, and after the sunset prayer.?At that time, Muslims gather in their homes or places of worship (Mosques) to break their fast with a meal called iftar. This meal is usually shared with friends and extended family.

Can you support Ramadan even if you’re not Muslim?

Along with Muslims who practice a Ramadan fast for religious devotion, many non-Muslims fast as an act of solidarity.?This year, as a show support and understanding, Chris Brink, President of Favorite Healthcare Staffing, is fasting alongside our Muslim colleagues here at Favorite.?

According to Islamic scholars, Ramadan can be both a social and spiritual journey regardless of one’s belief system.?Fasting during Ramadan is a lesson in humility, and for those participating, it teaches them just how difficult it is to be hungry for an extended period of time.

Even if you don’t fast with your Muslim colleagues and friends, there are still ways to support them during Ramadan.?The simple act of checking on them, showing concern about their wellbeing means a lot.?Or you could donate to an Islamic-based charity.?Lastly, you could also wish your Muslim associates “Ramadan Kareem,” which means Have a generous Ramadan.?However, make sure this greeting is said with good intentions to fully honor the significance of their religious devotion.

How does Ramadan conclude?

Around sundown on May 2nd, this year’s Ramadan observance will come to an end.?The end of Ramadan is marked with a celebration known as Eid al-Fitr, (Feast of Fast-Breaking).?Eid al-Fitr is a joyous holiday lasting up to three days.?During this time, Muslims take part in special morning prayers and greet each other with formal embraces.?They also give each other gifts and partake in special meals.

In the spirit of diversity and inclusion, we once again want to say “Ramadan Mubarak!” We extend this greeting to all the faithful observers around the world, and especially our Muslim colleagues and non-Muslim supporters here at Favorite Healthcare Staffing and The Acacium Group!??????