Summary
- Have you ever wondered why Ramadan 2024 starts on a different date than it did in 2023?
- This guide will explain why the start and end dates of Ramadan shift each year, and detail the significance of the holy month.
- Then, learn how you can exemplify the charitable, giving spirit of Ramadan by supporting Embrace Relief’s International Hunger Relief: Ramadan 2024 food distribution program.
Ramadan 2024 will be upon us before we know it. Muslims around the world eagerly anticipate the arrival of this sacred month, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. If you’re wondering about the timing of Ramadan in 2024, let’s delve into the specifics and the significance of this holiest month in Islam:
When is Ramadan 2024?
In 2024, Ramadan is expected to begin at sunset on Sunday, March 10. Ramadan 2024 will conclude with the Eid al-Fitr holiday, which begins at sunset on Tuesday, April 9. Ramadan’s start and end dates can vary slightly depending on location, based on the sightings of the moon and local customs.
Why is it so difficult to know when Ramadan starts? Because the start and end dates of Ramadan shift each year. Each occurrence of Ramadan is determined by the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle, unlike the Gregorian calendar used in the United States. Because the lunar cycle is a bit shorter (about 29.5 days) compared to the typical 30- or 31-day Gregorian month, Ramadan’s start date moves forward in the secular calendar each year by roughly 11 days. For example, in 2025, Ramadan is expected to start on February 28.
Ramadan: A Time of Discipline and Growth
Ramadan holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims globally. During this month, Muslims commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad by fasting from dawn until sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and serves as a means of self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual growth.
The days of Ramadan are characterized by increased worship, including the performance of special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh, recitation of the Quran, acts of charity (Zakat), and heightened devotion to prayer and reflection. The pre-dawn meal, Suhoor, and the evening meal to break the fast, Iftar, become special communal moments for families and communities.
Muslims worldwide celebrate Ramadan with diverse traditions and cultural practices. Each region infuses its unique customs into the observance of this holy month. Ramadan’s spirit fosters unity, empathy, and generosity among believers, transcending geographical boundaries.
Make your Ramadan count by donating to Embrace Relief’s International Hunger Relief!
Here at Embrace Relief, we have our own Ramadan tradition, as this time of year is home to one of our annual International Hunger Relief campaigns.
Thanks to the generosity of donors like you during this time of charity and giving Embrace Relief has been able to deliver nutritious food packages and meals to nearly 100,000 people in over 15 countries over our last three International Hunger Relief: Ramadan campaigns. We aim to reach even more families in need during Ramadan 2024, but we can’t do it alone!
We believe that Ramadan is a time to share our blessings and food with people most in need, whether they live in the United States, Africa, Yemen, or as refugees in Greece. You can support this cause by donating right now to our International Hunger Relief: Ramadan campaign in the box below. With just a few clicks, you can ensure that children around the world will go to bed on a full stomach.
May this upcoming Ramadan be a time of immense blessings, spiritual growth, and communal harmony for all.
