A guide to Ramadan Terms

Ramadan is one of the most important period in the Muslim calendar. It is a time of spiritual awakening, self-evaluation and remembrance of Allah, which Muslims observer through fasting and prayer. Ramadan, and Muslims are expected to help the needy.

Some of the Ramadan most used terms and its meaning list:

Ramadan

The ninth month of the Islamic (lunar) calendar.

Sawm

The Arabic word for fasting.

Iftar

Ending of the fast immediately after sunset. Iftar takes place at the Maghrib prayer adhan (call for prayer).

Suhoor

The pre-fast meal before dawn.

Eid Al Fitr

Three-day celebrations marking the end of Ramadan. It Takes place on the 1^st of Shawal, the 10^th month of the Islamic calendar.

Fidya

Compensation for missing a fast, for those who are unable to fast. Fidya usually takes the form of donating money, foodstuffs, or sacrificing an animal.

Zakat Al Fitr

Muslims have to give away a certain percentage of the total value of all that they own annually and distribute it to charity and the needy. The contribution is usually given during or at the end of Ramadan.

Eid Mubarak

Greeting meaning “Have a happy and blessed Eid” expressed during the Eid celebrations.