The crescent moon that heralds Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, was not visible on Sunday night, prompting the declaration of the start of fasting on Tuesday.

The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos also issued a similar declaration.

—(Source: Inquirer.net)

What is Ramadan?

(source: https://www.indiatoday.in)

Ramadan or Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar when Muslims worldwide observe fasting from dawn to dusk. They take their meal before dawn and after sunset. The meal taken before the sunrise is called Suhur, and the meal taken after the sunset is called Iftar. 

It is believed that during this month, God had revealed the verses of the Quran for the first time to Prophet Muhammad on “Laylat al-Qadr” (The Night of Power), the holiest night of the year when the blessings of Allah is abundant, and sins are forgiven.

The observance of Ramadan gives one the realization of the frailty of human life and our dependence on the Almighty for sustenance. According to the holy book of the Quran, fasting during Ramadan is one of Islam’s five pillars. The other pillars of Islam are a declaration of faith, daily prayer, charity, and Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.

Fasting for Ramadan is a mandate for all Muslims above adolescence except patients, travellers, elders, and women experiencing pregnancy or menstruation.

Also Read: House oks bill declaring February 1 as ‘National Hijab Day’

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