Have you ever thought why Muslims take a month out of each year to practice ritual fasting? I have, and I would love to share this reality with you so you can have some points to speak to your Muslim friends about and so that you can also pray for them. 

Ramadan marks the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Since it follows the lunar cycle, its exact dates change annually based on the crescent moon’s sighting. In 2025, Ramadan is anticipated to begin on the evening of February 28 and conclude on the evening of March 30, followed by Eid al-Fitr. What then is the significance of Ramadan? Here are a few ideas. 

Honoring the Quran’s Revelation

  • Muslims believe the Quran’s first verses were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during Ramadan in 610 CE, specifically on Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power). It is important for Christians to show that the Bible teaches no expectation of a future revelation (Heb.1:1, Matt.24:5,11, 23-26). 

Spiritual Growth and Discipline

  • Muslims fast from dawn to sunset as a demonstration of devotion and obedience to Allah, emphasizing prayer, self-restraint, and generosity. We can show our Muslim friends that spiritual exercise, even though beneficial, profits very little when trying to appease God (1 Tim. 4:8, Matt.6:7). 

Observing the Five Pillars of Islam

  • Fasting during Ramadan (Sawm) is a core part of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a mandatory act of worship for all physically capable adult Muslims. Jesus encourages His followers to also fast, but he encourages them to do this in secret (Matt.6:16-18)

Seeking Forgiveness and Blessings

  • Ramadan is seen as a time when Allah’s mercy and forgiveness are abundant, and Muslims aim to purify their souls through repentance and worship. Jesus speaks to the crowds and mentions that they need to repent and believe the Gospel for salvation (Mark 1:14-15). 

Fostering Community and Generosity

  • Muslims gather to break their fast (Iftar) and increase charitable acts (Zakat and Sadaqah), aiding the less fortunate and strengthening social ties. Christians are equally encouraged to take care of the poor (Prov. 19:17, 2 Cor.9:7, Matt.19:21). 

Let us keep our Muslim friends in prayer so they might come to a full understanding of the saving and atoning work of our Lord Jesus Christ.