What is the purpose of the Ramadan?
Muslims aim to grow spiritually and build stronger relationships with Allah SWT during this period by curbing their desires and following the command to self-control and not eat, drink or fulfil carnal desires during the daylight, by praying, reciting the Quran in abundance and giving in charity. This month serves as an investment into the hereafter with acts being rewarded seventy fold.
When is Ramadan 2024 expected to commence?
The Islamic calendar follows the phases of the moon, commonly known as the lunar cycle. As a result, the Holy month of Ramadan exact dates are determined by the sighting of the new moon which kicks off the 9th month in the Hijri Calendar. The date changes annually by 10 days as the commonly accepted calendar uses solar cycles. This year, Ramadan is expected to commence on 10th March 2024, and end on 8th April 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon during the March lunar cycle.
What time do muslims start fasting?
The start of the daily fast commences at approximately 5:30am in Cape Town, 5am in Johannesburg & 4:30am in Durban. The exact times are generally readily available online and in printed formats for most areas around South Africa.
Which city in South Africa has the longest fasts?
Cape Town has the longest fasts with Iftar before 5:30am and Suhr after 7pm which adds up to over 12 hours. However Prince Edward Islands, which are two small uninhabited islands in the sub-Antarctic Indian Ocean that are part of South Africa, have days that extend beyond 14 daylight hours in March.
Is fasting compulsory on Muslims?
The Fourth Pillar of Islam is Sawm, or fasting and is counted in the same rank as the 5 daily prayers, payment of Zakaat, reading of the Quran and performing of Hajj. The obligatory act of withstanding the desire to fulfil basic human needs for a short period daily in submission to the command of our creator came into effect in the 2nd year after the Muslims migrated to Medina. Fasting is compulsory on all muslims past the age of puberty with a few exemptions.
Amplification of Deeds
Giving Zakat or Sadaqah during Ramadan is multiplied by 70 times, and the reward for any righteous act is equivalent to having performed that same deed every day for 83 years.Whoever (in that month) draws closer (to Allah) with one good, it is as if he is doing one obligatory worship in another month. Whoever does one obligatory deed, it is as if he has done 70 good deeds in another month.
