When is Ramadan 2024 in Australia?
The lunar calendar rotates by roughly 10-11 days each year, meaning that the exact dates of Ramadan change every year. All dates and times are subject to confirmation and sighting of the moon, but Ramadan 2024 in Australia is expected to start after sunset on Monday, 11th March 2024.
Ramadan, observed by nearly 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide, is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar dedicated to fasting, prayer, and reflection. It's a time when believers draw closer to God, practice self-discipline, and engage in acts of charity.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, marking the period when the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this month, able-bodied Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. This act of fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, fundamental practices that define a Muslim's faith and practices.
Why Fasting is So Important
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It was ordered in the Qur’an and is expected that all able Muslims (those who are mature and in good health) should fast from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan. During this time, fasting is more than just abstinence; it is a means of worship and for Muslims to feel a closer and more profound connection with Allah (SWT). Fasting allows each individual to understand what it means to go without and to learn patience with oneself and those around them, as well as compassion for those less fortunate.
Zakat & Why There are Donations During Ramadan
Zakat is an obligatory charity act and is the Islamic faith's third pillar. Giving to charity is a significant part of everyday life for Muslims. In Islam, giving to charity is an excellent deed at any time of year. However, when combined with the auspicious month of Ramadan, donating Zakat is multiplied manifold, with untold blessings and rewards for the donor. Ramadan charity is highly rewarded, so the vast majority of Muslims choose to donate at this time. Although it is not an obligation to donate during Ramadan, this is why so many Muslims choose to do so during this month.