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We are currently in the middle of the holy month of Ramadan. So what is the importance of this period to a Muslim? Here is a brief  introduction to Ramadan for people of all faiths.

Q: What is Ramadan?

A: Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic Lunar calendar. In this month, Allah (God) revealed the Qur'an (the Holy Scripture of Islam) through the angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad. This occurred on Laylat Al-Qadr, one of the last 10 nights of the month.

The word Ramadan is derived from the Arabic word Ramad; which means scorching heat or dryness.

Q. When is Ramadan?

A: In 2012, Ramadan will commence on Friday July 20th and end around August 18th. The ending of Ramadan is marked by the holiday of Eid ul-Fitr, which takes place either 29 or 30 days after the beginning of the month. On Eid ul-Fitr, morning prayers are followed by feasting and celebration among family and friends. This year Eid ul-Fitr will most most likely fall on Sunday, August 19th.

Q. How long is Ramadan?

A: Ramadan varies between 29 and 30 days each year, due to the Islamic calendar which follows a lunar cycle. Consequently, the Islamic calendar moves back 10 days every year and thus Ramadan starts on a different Gregorian date each year.

Q: What do people do during Ramadan?

A: Many Muslims in Australia fast during the daylight hours in the month of Ramadan. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars (fundamental religious duties) of Islam. It is common to have a pre-fast meal (suhoor) before sunrise and an evening meal (iftar) after sunset during Ramadan. Some groups of people, including the chronically ill, mentally challenged, and the elderly who cannot participate due to health reasons, are exempt from fasting. It is also not allowed to have sexual relations or smoke during the day.

Ramadan is also a time for many Muslims to donate to charity by participating in food drives for the poor, organizing a collection or charity event, and other voluntary activities. They are also encouraged to read the Qur'an often during Ramadan. Some Muslims recite the entire Qur'an by the end of Ramadan through special prayers known as Tarawih, which are held in the mosques every night of the month, during which a section of the Qur'an is recited.

Q: What is the purpose of Ramadan?

A: Ramadan is a time of self-examination, increased religious devotion and purification. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan also teaches Muslims how to better practice self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of generosity and charity.