Saudi Arabia on Sunday spotted the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of holy month of Ramadan, according to local media.
Following Saudi Arabia’s announcement, several Gulf Arab nations, including Egypt, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen, affirmed the start of Ramadan, aligning their fasting period with Monday, March 11. North American Muslims also joined the global community in commencing their fast on Monday.
However, in the Asia-Pacific region, some countries such as Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore will commence Ramadan on Tuesday due to the absence of the crescent moon sighting. Oman and Jordan similarly announced the commencement of Ramadan on Tuesday.
In accordance with the lunar calendar, Ramadan, the ninth month, holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. This month-long observance commemorates the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad, making it one of the Five Pillars of Islam, alongside Shahada, Salat, Zakat, and Hajj.
For those observing Ramadan, abstaining from food and water from sunrise to sunset symbolizes spiritual purification, self-discipline, and empathy for those less fortunate. It’s a time for intensified devotion through prayer, increased acts of charity, and strengthening familial bonds.
Leaders and officials across the Muslim world extended warm wishes and congratulations to mark the beginning of Ramadan, emphasizing the values of unity, compassion, and solidarity.
Despite regional variations in the start date, the spirit of Ramadan unites Muslims worldwide in a shared commitment to spiritual growth, communal harmony, and humanitarian endeavors. As the month unfolds, the faithful look forward to the blessings, opportunities for reflection, and the collective spirit of devotion that Ramadan brings to communities around the globe.
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