The Blessed Month of Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and the holiest month for Muslims worldwide. It is a time of fasting, increased prayer, reflection, generosity, and community — a month when Muslims turn their full attention toward worship and spiritual renewal. For the Somali community, Ramadan holds deep cultural and religious significance, woven into the fabric of daily and communal life.

The Obligation of Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan (Sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it obligatory for every adult Muslim who is able. The fast runs from the Fajr (pre-dawn) prayer to the Maghrib (sunset) prayer, during which Muslims abstain from:

  • Food and drink of any kind
  • Smoking
  • Sexual relations
  • Sinful speech and behavior

Islam provides exemptions for the ill, elderly, pregnant or nursing women, travelers, and children — demonstrating the religion's recognition of human capacity and mercy.

The Spiritual Dimensions of Ramadan

Tarawih Prayers

Every night of Ramadan, Muslims gather in mosques for the Tarawih prayers — special voluntary night prayers in which large portions of the Qur'an are recited. For the Somali community, masjid gatherings for Tarawih are among the most beloved communal experiences of the year.

Laylatul Qadr — The Night of Power

The final ten nights of Ramadan contain Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power — described in the Qur'an as better than a thousand months. Muslims intensify worship during this period, seeking the immense blessings and forgiveness it offers. Many spend these nights in I'tikaf (spiritual seclusion in the mosque).

Reading the Qur'an

Ramadan is the month in which the Qur'an was revealed. Muslims are strongly encouraged to complete at least one full reading of the Qur'an during the month — many complete it multiple times. Radio Furqan broadcasts Qur'an recitation throughout Ramadan to support this practice.

Suhoor and Iftar: Community at the Table

Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (the meal to break the fast at sunset) are more than just eating — they are acts of worship and community. Breaking fast together with family, neighbors, and those in need is one of the defining joys of Ramadan.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged feeding others at Iftar, promising the same reward as the fasting person. Hosting communal Iftar meals — especially for those far from family — is a beautiful expression of Somali hospitality and Islamic brotherhood.

Zakat and Sadaqah in Ramadan

Ramadan is also a peak time for giving. Muslims pay Zakat al-Fitr before Eid al-Fitr to ensure that every community member can celebrate. Voluntary charity (Sadaqah) is multiplied in reward during this month, and Somali communities around the world are known for their generosity — organizing food drives, supporting orphans, and funding construction of wells and mosques back home.

Ramadan on Radio Furqan

Throughout Ramadan, Radio Furqan offers extended programming including:

  • Suhoor broadcasts with Qur'an recitation and du'a
  • Daily Islamic reminders and lectures from scholars
  • Iftar-time programs connecting the diaspora community
  • Special Laylatul Qadr broadcasts in the final ten nights

We invite all listeners to join us during this blessed month and make the most of every moment of Ramadan.