ramadan mubarak

Ramadan 2026: Start Date and Significance

The holy month of Ramadan is a significant period for Muslims around the world, marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. In 2026, Ramadan is anticipated to begin on February 18 or 19, although the exact date may vary depending on the sighting of the moon.

Key Takeaways

• Ramadan 2026 is expected to start on February 18 or 19.
• The beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the moon.
• Ramadan is a time for fasting, prayer, and community.

Understanding Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. The annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts 29 to 30 days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. The fast is broken each day with a meal known as Iftar, which follows the Maghrib prayer at sunset. The pre-dawn meal before the fast begins is called Sehri.

The Significance of Moon Sighting

The Islamic calendar is lunar, and the beginning of each month is marked by the sighting of the new moon. For Ramadan, this means that the start date can vary by a day or two depending on the geographical location and the sighting of the moon.

According to Al Jazeera English, the process of moon sighting is both a religious and communal activity, often involving local religious authorities and community members.

Conclusion

As the month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims around the world prepare to engage in this period of spiritual discipline and reflection. The anticipated start of Ramadan on February 18 or 19 in 2026 highlights the importance of the moon sighting tradition in determining the Islamic calendar.

FAQ

• When does Ramadan 2026 begin? Ramadan 2026 is expected to start on February 18 or 19, depending on the moon sighting.
• What is the significance of Ramadan? Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, observed by Muslims worldwide as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
• How is the start of Ramadan determined? The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon, which marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar month.
• What are Sehri and Iftari? Sehri is the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins, and Iftari is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset.