Ramadan begins approximately 11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, which is shorter by about 10 to 12 days than the solar calendar used globally. The Islamic year consists of 12 months, each with 29 or 30 days, and this lunar year is also used for calculating zakat (annual charity), known as a hawl.
If Ramadan 2025 begins on the evening of February 28, Muslims will start their first day of fasting on Saturday, March 1. Alternatively, if the holy month starts the night of March 1, fasting will commence on Sunday, March 2. The fasting period begins at dawn each day after offering the Fajr prayer and concludes at sunset with the Maghrib prayer. The Taraweeh prayers, a special set of prayers performed only during Ramadan, will also start after the Isha prayer on the first night of Ramadan, which may be either February 28 or March 1.
Why the Exact Date Varies
The Islamic tradition follows moonsighting to determine the beginning of each lunar month. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of spotting the new crescent moon with the naked eye to confirm the start of Ramadan. When the new moon becomes visible just after sunset, it indicates the beginning of the month. However, the sighting is sometimes challenging due to weather conditions or the moon's position, leading to differences in when Ramadan starts in various regions. Scholars also use calculations to predict the moon's movement, and based on these predictions, we can estimate the likely date for Ramadan, but it remains subject to actual sighting for confirmation.
When Will Eid al-Fitr 2025 Be?
Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to be on either March 29, 30, or 31, 2025. The date of Eid depends on when Ramadan begins and whether it lasts 29 or 30 days, as the moon's sighting again plays a role in determining the end of the month. If Ramadan starts on February 28, then Eid will likely fall on March 29 or 30. If it starts on March 1, Eid may be celebrated on March 30 or 31.
Eid al-Fitr is a joyful occasion that follows a month of fasting, spiritual reflection, and devotion, and it falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims celebrate by offering special prayers, giving charity, and sharing meals with family and friends.
As we prepare for Ramadan 2025, may Allah accept our efforts and grant us the blessings of this sacred month.