RAMADAN FACT SHEET
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Unlike Christmas, which falls
on the same date every year, Ramadan begins on a different date each year. The first
day of Ramadan begins when the first sliver of the crescent moon in the ninth month
appears. One thing special about the month of Ramadhan is the Qur’an was revealed
to Prophet Muhammad.
Who celebrates Ramadan?
Ramadan is celebrated by Muslims who are followers of the religion of Islam.
What do Muslims do during Ramadan?
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast. This means they do not eat or drink anything from dawn
until sunset. Young children, pregnant women, and those not healthy enough to fast are not required
to observe the fast. In addition, Muslims are encouraged to spend time reading the Qur’an, spending
time with family, and being more charitable by giving to others.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
There are many reasons Muslims fast during Ramadan, some of these include:
1. To gain God’s pleasure
2. To strengthen one’s faith
3. To develop self-control
4. To remind oneself that there are many people in the world less fortunate
What do Muslims do at the end of Ramadan?
After the last day of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al Fitr, which translates to the “Celebration of
Breaking the Fast” or “Eid” for short. On Eid, Muslims wear new clothes, go to mosque for prayers and
give a special charity to the less fortunate. After prayer, they visit families and enjoy meals together
to celebrate this major holiday.
How can my family learn more about Ramadan?
To learn more about Ramadhan, there are many wonderful children’s books available. Listed below
are a few suggestions:
-Rafiq and Friend’s The Ramadhan Date Palm, by Fatemeh Mashouf
-It’s Ramadan, Curious George, by Hena Khan
-Ilyas & Duck and the Fantastic Festival of Eid al Fitr, by Omar Khawaja
-Ramdhan and Eid-ul-Fitr, by Azra Jessa
-Noor Kids First time Fasting, by Elizabeth Lymer
www.taqwamedia.com