Complete Guide
Ramadan Guide
Everything you need to know about the blessed month of Ramadan - fasting rules, prayers, duas, and tips to make the most of this holy month.
Last updated: February 2026
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It's the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Quran: "The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion. So whoever of you sights the month, let him fast it." (2:185)
Fasting Basics
🌅 Suhoor (Pre-dawn meal)
Eat before Fajr adhan. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Eat suhoor, for in suhoor there is blessing."
🌙 Iftar (Breaking fast)
Break fast at Maghrib time. Sunnah to break with dates and water first.
🕌 Taraweeh Prayer
Special night prayer in Ramadan after Isha. 8 or 20 rakahs depending on tradition.
✨ Laylatul Qadr
The Night of Power - better than 1000 months. Seek it in the last 10 nights, especially odd nights.
What Breaks/Doesn't Break the Fast
| Action | Breaks Fast? |
|---|---|
| Eating or drinking intentionally | ✗Breaks Fast |
| Sexual intercourse | ✗Breaks Fast |
| Intentional vomiting | ✗Breaks Fast |
| Menstruation or post-natal bleeding | ✗Breaks Fast |
| Swallowing water while rinsing mouth | ✗Breaks Fast |
| Eating/drinking forgetfully | ✓Safe |
| Unintentional vomiting | ✓Safe |
| Swallowing saliva | ✓Safe |
| Eye/ear drops (according to most scholars) | ✓Safe |
| Blood tests | ✓Safe |
| Brushing teeth (without swallowing) | ✓Safe |
Daily Ramadan Schedule
Tahajjud prayer (optional but highly rewarded)
Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) - stop eating before Fajr
Fajr prayer - fasting begins
Quran recitation, morning adhkar
Dhuhr prayer, continue worship
Asr prayer, make dua before Maghrib
Break fast (Iftar), Maghrib prayer
Isha prayer, Taraweeh prayer (20 or 8 rakahs)
Essential Ramadan Duas
Dua for Breaking Fast (Iftar)
ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الْأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ
Dhahaba adh-dhama'u wabtallatil-'urooqu wa thabatal-ajru insha'Allah.
The thirst has gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.
Dua When Beginning Fast (Suhoor)
وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ
Wa bi-sawmi ghadin nawaitu min shahri Ramadan.
I intend to fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.
Dua for Laylatul Qadr
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul-'afwa fa'fu 'anni.
O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.
Who is Exempt from Fasting?
- •The sick - if fasting would harm them (make up later when healthy)
- •Travelers - can choose to fast or make up later
- •Pregnant/nursing women - if fasting would harm them or baby
- •Women during menstruation - must make up the days later
- •Elderly who cannot fast - pay fidyah (feed a poor person for each day)
- •Children before puberty - not obligatory but encouraged to practice
Surahs to Read in Ramadan
Many Muslims aim to complete the entire Quran during Ramadan. Here are some especially recommended Surahs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I brush my teeth while fasting?▼
Yes, you can brush your teeth while fasting. Just be careful not to swallow any water or toothpaste. It's best to use miswak or brush without toothpaste if you're concerned.
What if I accidentally eat or drink?▼
If you genuinely forgot that you were fasting, your fast is still valid. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever forgets that he is fasting and eats or drinks, let him complete his fast, for it is Allah who fed him and gave him drink."
When is Laylatul Qadr?▼
Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) is in the last 10 nights of Ramadan, most likely on an odd night (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th). Many scholars say the 27th night is most likely, but seek it on all odd nights.
Can I take medication while fasting?▼
Oral medication that is swallowed breaks the fast. However, if you have a medical condition that requires medication during fasting hours, you may be exempt from fasting. Consult a knowledgeable scholar and your doctor. Injections that are not nutritional (like insulin) are generally considered permissible by many scholars.
What is Taraweeh prayer and is it mandatory?▼
Taraweeh is a special night prayer performed during Ramadan after Isha prayer. It is Sunnah (highly recommended) but not obligatory. It can be prayed in the mosque in congregation or at home. It is typically 8 or 20 rakahs, depending on the tradition.
What should I eat for Suhoor and Iftar?▼
For Suhoor, eat slow-digesting foods like oats, whole grains, eggs, and drink plenty of water. Avoid very salty or sugary foods. For Iftar, follow the Sunnah and break your fast with dates and water first, then have a balanced meal. Avoid overeating.
What is Itikaf and when should I do it?▼
Itikaf is a spiritual retreat in the mosque, especially during the last 10 days of Ramadan. The person stays in the mosque dedicating time to worship, Quran recitation, and dua. It can be done for any duration, but the Sunnah is the last 10 days. Both men and women can observe Itikaf.
Continue Learning
Read Quran This Ramadan
Start reading Quran with our audio-synced transliteration. Perfect for completing the Quran in Ramadan.
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