Western Ramadan: 15 Essential Terms You Need to Know

As the Muslim community worldwide observes the sacred month of Ramadan, delving deeper into the vocabulary associated with this time can enrich one’s appreciation of its importance. Whether you are actively partaking in the festivities or simply curious to learn more about this religious and cultural custom, familiarizing oneself with the essential terms is imperative.

1. Ramadan Kareem or Ramadan Mubarak

These greetings convey wishes for a blessed and generous Ramadan. “Kareem” means generous, while “Mubarak” signifies blessings and happiness.

2. Sawm or Siyam

Referring to fasting, “Sawm” or “Siyam” denotes the act of abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset during Ramadan.

3. Iftar

The evening meal with which Muslims break their fast at sunset. Iftar gatherings often involve sharing meals with family, friends, and the community.

4. Madfa

The cannon blast signaling the end of the fasting period at sunset, marking the beginning of Iftar.

5. Suhoor

The pre-dawn meal consumed before the start of the fasting day. Suhoor provides nourishment and hydration to sustain individuals throughout the fasting hours.

6. Imsak

The period just before dawn, during which individuals who are fasting must abstain from eating and drinking until the call to prayer is heard.

7. Mosaharaty

A person who roams the streets during the predawn hours to awaken Muslims for Suhoor. Mosaharaty traditionally uses drums or recitations to rouse sleepers.

8. Qada

The act of making up for missed fasts or other religious duties. Muslims may perform Qada to compensate for missed fasting days due to illness, travel, or other valid reasons.

9. Kaffara

A penalty imposed for breaking the fast intentionally or missing fasts without a valid reason. Kaffara typically involves fasting for an additional 60 days or feeding 60 underprivileged individuals.

10. Salah

Daily prayers performed by Muslims, consisting of five obligatory prayers at specific times throughout the day. During Ramadan, additional prayers such as Taraweeh are encouraged.

11. Taraweeh

Extended prayers performed after the evening Isha prayer during Ramadan. Taraweeh sessions typically involve recitations from the Quran and can last up to an hour.

12. Laylat Al Qadr

Also known as the Night of Decree, Laylat Al Qadr is considered the holiest night of Ramadan. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad and occurs during the last ten days of Ramadan.

13. Itikaf

A spiritual retreat observed during the last ten days of Ramadan, during which Muslims seclude themselves in mosques to engage in worship and reflection.

14. Eid Al Fitr

The festival of breaking the fast that marks the end of Ramadan. Eid Al Fitr is celebrated with special prayers, feasting, and charitable acts.

15. Zakat and Zakat Al Fitr

Zakat is the obligatory charitable giving required of all Muslims, while Zakat Al Fitr is a special form of charity given before Eid Al Fitr prayers to ensure that all Muslims can participate in the festivities.

As you familiarize yourself with these important terms, you will attain a profound comprehension of the customs, practices, and significance of Ramadan, which will not only enhance your cultural knowledge but also strengthen your bonds with the Muslim community during this sacred season.