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What is the history of Ramadan, and when did Muslims first start observing this important month?
Ramadan, the sacred month of fasting in Islam, has been observed by Muslims worldwide for over 14 centuries. In the seventh century, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) declared that Islam rests on five pillars, with fasting during Ramadan as one of them.
Today, about 25% of Muslims worldwide fast to honor the month when the holy Quran was revealed to the Prophet (PBUH). They fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan, as part of Sawm, which is the Fourth Pillar of Islam.
Let’s explore the origin of Ramadan and how its traditions have changed over time.
Ramadan derives its name from the Arabic root ar-ramad. This means ‘intense heat’, originally referred to as the scorching summer month it was associated with. This designation was part of the pre-Islamic Arab calendar long before Islam arrived in Mecca, now in Saudi Arabia, in the seventh century.
No month carries as much significance for Muslims as Ramadan. This tradition, spanning thousands of years, is deeply embedded in Islam. Before the Prophet (PBUH), Ramadan was already regarded as a significant and sacred month by the Arabs.
During the time of Ramadan, local conflicts and wars would cease, allowing for a period of uninterrupted peace. The more devout individuals would retreat to temples, caves, and other secluded spaces to meditate.
According to Islamic tradition (as recorded in hadiths), Ramadan was also the month in which God revealed the scriptures to various prophets. These include the scriptures to Abraham (Ibrahim), the Torah to Moses (Musa), the Psalms to David (Dawud), and the Gospel to Jesus (Isa).
The first revelation of the Quran took place during the month of Ramadan in 610 AD. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had secluded himself in a cave on Mount Hira near Mecca for deep reflection when this momentous event occurred.
During this time, the Angel Jibril (A.S) appeared to him, revealing the exact words of Allah (SWT) in what would become the Qur’an.
This initial revelation is especially significant and is known as the "Night of Power.":
“We have revealed it (Quran) on the night of power. And what will explain to you what the night of power is? The night of power is better than a thousand months.”
(Quran 97:1–4)
The Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 23 years. The verses instructing Muslims to fast during Ramadan were revealed in the latter part of this period.
For the first 12 years in Mecca, the Muslim minority endured torture and persecution by the Quraysh tribe, with many losing their lives.
In 622 AD, the surviving Muslims migrated to Medina, over 300 km away. Two years later, verses were revealed about the origin of fasting in Islam. This established the practice of fasting from dawn to dusk during Ramadan.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) established the practices for this holy month in their new place of worship.
The Prophet (PBUH) devoted his life to spreading these teachings. Today, Islam is the world’s second-largest religion, with over one billion followers worldwide.
All Muslims follow the Five Pillars and observe Ramadan, a key part of their faith to honor Sawm, despite the various sects within Islam.
The history of Ramadan fasting can be traced back to pre-Islamic Arabs, as referenced in the Quran:
“You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of God.”
(Quran 2:183)
The early Muslim community would rise for the pre-dawn meal, known as suhoor. They would then fast until sunset, abstaining from eating, drinking, and marital relations. They would break their fast (iftar) typically with dates.
Fasting was not just about abstaining from food and drink but also about spiritual discipline, enhanced worship, and improved behavior.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized,
“If a person does not avoid false talk and behavior during the fast, then God does not care if he abstains from food and drink.”
In the later years of his life, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began performing additional night prayers during Ramadan called Taraweeh. He was concerned that people might believe the prayers were mandatory. So, he chose to pray privately at home rather than in the mosque with others.
Ten years after his passing, Caliph Umar (RA) noticed Muslims praying Taraweeh in small groups around the mosque. To unify their worship, he established a congregational prayer. This has become a key feature of Ramadan, during which the Quran is recited.
As Islam expanded, the practice of Ramadan evolved across various Caliphates while retaining its core principles. Let's explore the history of Ramadan during different Caliphate periods.
Since 624, the main rituals of Ramadan have stayed the same, but the growth of Islam worldwide has brought diverse experiences to the month.
The important rituals and cultural expressions that have grown over many years show the significance of this sacred month. They reveal both the consistent nature of its practices and the diverse ways people celebrate it around the world.
In conclusion, The practice of fasting has roots in Ramadan pre-Islamic history. It evolved into a significant time for spiritual reflection, which was later formalized in the 7th century. It has since transformed into a global tradition embraced by 1.8 billion Muslims today.
From its initial practice by a small group of early Muslims, Ramadan has grown into a vibrant celebration across diverse cultures. The history of Ramadan highlights its enduring significance as a time of deep religious importance and communal unity.
WRITTEN BY
Ali Raza (Charity and Philanthropy, Islamic Theology)
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
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