Ramadan

Ramadan History

Ramadan is the holy month for Muslims worldwide, this month-long celebration involves fasting, prayer, reflection, and communal gatherings. It's viewed as a time of spiritual development and personal growth, encouraging individuals to focus on positivity and purify their thoughts and actions. Although fasting is a crucial observance, Ramadan also emphasizes charitable giving, family bonding, and community outreach. These activities are seen as an affirmation of unity, humanity, and a shared obligation for the welfare of others.

The observance of Ramadan developed over centuries, dating back to the 7th century CE when the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have received the first revelations of the Quran. In Canada, Ramadan holds special significance for the more than one million Muslims residing in the country. Perfectly aligned with the Canadian values of diversity, tolerance, and inclusivity, the month is recognized and respected by people of all faith backgrounds. Various aspects of Ramadan, such as communal Iftars (breaking of the fast), charity fundraisers, and interfaith events enhance multiculturalism and mutual understanding among the broader Canadian society.

Each year, the observance of Ramadan in Canada takes place in harmony with the broader community. The diverse Muslim Canadian community, composed of various ethnicities and cultures, adds a distinct flavor to the Ramadan celebration. Mosques organize daily Iftars, Quran recitation sessions, and special night prayers. In the diverse settings of Canada, a specific date for the beginning of Ramadan is determined based on the lunar calendar and the sighting of the new moon. The methods and calculations may vary among different communities, but everyone collectively observes the month with sincerity and devotion.

Facts & quotes about Ramadan

• According to Islamic tradition, menstruating women, women who are experiencing bleeding after giving birth, people who are sick (either with short term or long term illnesses), and travelers are exempt from fasting. Pregnant women also have the option of skipping fasts.
• According to Sunnah belief, the Prophet Muhammad once said, There is no conceit in fasting.
• O who believe, fasting is decreed for you as it was decreed for those before you; perchance you will guard yourselves (Quran, 2:183)
• The Canadian Council of Imams declares the beginning of Ramadan after sighting the moon, following the traditional Islamic method. This may vary from global sighting leading to a difference of day in starting Ramadan.
• Muslims in Canada break their fast at sunset with a meal called Iftar, usually shared with family and friends. There may also be larger community events hosted at mosques and community centers.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Ramadan

Top things to do in Canada for Ramadan

• The fast is usually broken in a family setting, where traditional foods are served. Most Muslims begin their meal with a few dates and a glass of milk because the Prophet Muhammad used to do the same. The high sugar content of the dates sends energy to weary fasting Muslim, while the fiber in the dates and the protein in the milk fills them up and prevents nausea.
• During Ramadan, Muslims congregate every night in the mosque to pray Taraweeh prayers in congregation. In the United States, in between sets of prayers, the Imam gives a brief sermon and encourages people to give to charity.
• Visit the Baitun Nur Mosque in Calgary: It is one of the largest mosques in Canada where special events centered around Ramadan take place, such as traditional Iftars (meal to break the fast) and special night prayers (Taraweeh).
• Read a book to learn more about Ramadan in Canada:
  Ramadan: The Holy Month of Fasting - by Ausma Zehanat Khan
  Celebrating Ramadan - by Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith
  Muslims in Canada: A Question of Identity - by Reg Whitaker