Ahmed Elswify, Staff Writer
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, commencing upon the visual
sighting of the last full moon of the year and enduring for either 29 or 30 days,
contingent upon the year. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of
Ramadan and the advent of the subsequent lunar month.
This year, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening on Sunday,
March 10, 2024 and end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024., concluding with the
celebration of Eid al-Fitr. However, specific dates may vary depending on the lunar
calendar and regional moon sightings..
THE PURPOSE OF RAMADAN
Ramadan originated as an observance of the first revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet
Mohammed. Throughout this sacred month, Muslims worldwide abstain from all food,
drink, and other physical necessities during daylight hours, including smoking and
intimacy. However, Ramadan transcends mere abstinence; it serves as a period for soul
purification, refocusing attention on God, and practicing self-discipline and sacrifice.
THE PRACTICE
Fasting during Ramadan constitutes one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are
foundational principles shaping a Muslim’s life. While prayer is a daily practice,
pilgrimage to Mecca (Makka) is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation, and charity and
professing faith are continuous, fasting during Ramadan is an annual observance. Each
year, Muslims devote an entire month to this rigorous fast, reaffirming their commitment
to worship and faith.
Muslims utilize this month to reassess their lives in light of Islamic principles, reconciling
with those they have wronged, strengthening familial bonds, and eliminating detrimental
habits. The Arabic term for "fasting" conveys not only abstaining from food and drink but
also refraining from malevolent actions, thoughts, and speech.
The physical rigors of fasting serve as a reminder of the plight of the less fortunate,
fostering empathy and gratitude among Muslims for the blessings bestowed upon them.
Ramadan underscores the importance of gratitude and altruism, prompting believers to
assist those in need.
Throughout Ramadan, every aspect of the body is to exercise restraint, refraining from
sinful behaviors and indulgences. Fasting transcends mere physical abstinence,
representing a holistic commitment of body and soul to the spirit of the fast. It is a period
for self-restraint, cleansing the body and soul of impurities, and recentering one’s focus
on worship and charitable deeds.
Ramadan embodies a time of fasting, reflection, devotion, generosity, and sacrifice
observed by Muslims worldwide. Unlike holidays of other faiths that have become
commercialized, Ramadan retains its profound spiritual significance. The word
"Ramadan" derives from the Arabic root for "parched thirst" and "sun-baked ground"
encapsulating the hunger and thirst experienced by fasting individuals.
In contrast to indulgent festivities, Ramadan inherently entails sacrifice. Through fasting,
Muslims empathize with the impoverished and develop heightened devotion, generosity,
and self-control. It provides an opportunity to cultivate healthy lifestyle habits and
strengthen communal bonds.
Ramadan holds profound significance for Muslims, with its lessons and sentiments
resonating throughout the year. Muslims are enjoined in the Qur’an to fast to "learn self-
restraint" (Qur’an 2:183). While these virtues are particularly palpable during Ramadan,
believers strive to embody them in their daily lives.
Why Belly Dance is Not Recommended During Ramadan:
Belly dancing, while culturally appreciated in various contexts, is not recommended
during Ramadan due to its physical nature and cultural associations. Ramadan
emphasizes self-discipline, spiritual reflection, and modesty. Belly dancing,
characterized by its sensual movements, contradicts these principles, making it
culturally inappropriate during this sacred month. Additionally, engaging in vigorous
physical activities, such as belly dancing, can be taxing for individuals observing the
fast, potentially compromising their energy levels and focus on worship. Therefore, it is
advisable to refrain from belly dancing during Ramadan out of respect for its spiritual
significance and cultural norms.
About the Author:
Ahmed Elswify is an Arabic language teacher with a Master's degree in Arabic
Linguistics and Literature, complemented by a diploma in Arabic culture. Alongside his
language courses, he offers comprehensive resources and short courses tailored for
travelers. Connect with Ahmed and explore his courses at
And arabic language Egyptian/ MSA Arabic
(https://www.ilarabicacademy.com) or access his courses directly at
seeking quick Arabic learning solutions, Ahmed provides short courses accessible at
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