Longest and Shortest Fasting Hours in Ramadan 2023
Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide and it is the month in which the Quran is believed to be revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
When is Ramadan?
Ramadan 2023 is expected to take place on the evening of Thursday, March 23, and end on the evening of Saturday, Apr 22, 2023. Dates may vary from year to year and are determined by the sighting of the new moon. Typically, Ramadan lasts for either 29 or 30 days. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs as a means of spiritual purification and reflection. The fast is broken each evening at sunset with a meal called "Iftar."
Duration of Fasting
Muslims across the globe observe a period of fasting that starts before sunrise and ends at sunset. The duration of this fast varies between 10 to 21 hours depending on the geographical location. The duration of the fast can vary depending on the geographical location and the time of year. In places closer to the equator, the duration of the fast may be shorter, while in places further away, the fast may be longer. Additionally, the length of the fast can also depend on the time of year, as the days are longer during the summer months compared to the winter months.
What happens in Ramadan?
In addition to fasting, Ramadan is a time for increased prayer, charitable acts, and community gatherings. Muslims often gather together for nightly meals, known as iftars, to break their fast and spend time with loved ones. Ramadan is considered one of the most important months in the Islamic calendar, and it is a time for Muslims to deepen their connection with their faith and with each other. It is a time for self-discipline, compassion, and generosity, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of spirituality and community in our lives. The act of fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is believed to bring spiritual benefits such as increased empathy, patience, and gratitude.
Countries with the Shortest Fasting Hours
Country Duration of the fast
Chile 11 hours & 30 minutes
South Africa 11 to 12 hours
New Zealand 11 to 12 hours
Paraguay 11 to 12 hours
Uruguay 11 to 12 hours
Singapore 13 to 14 hours
Malaysia 13 to 14 hours
Sudan 13 to 14 hours
Yemen 13 to 14 hours
Brazil 12 to 13 hours
Zimbabwe 12 to 13 hours
Indonesia 12 to 13 hours
Countries with the Longest Fasting Hours
Country Duration of the fast
Iceland 16 hours and 50 minutes
Greenland 16 to 17 hours
France 16 to 17 hours
Poland 16 to 17 hours
England 16 to 17 hours
Portugal 15 to 16 hours
Greece 15 to 16 hours
China 15 to 16 hours
US 15 to 16 hours
Turkey 15 to 16 hours
Canada 15 to 16 hours
North Korea 15 to 16 hours
Japan 14 to 15 hours
Pakistan 14 to 15 hours
Iran 14 to 15 hours
Iraq 14 to 15 hours
Syria 14 to 15 hours
Palestine 14 to 15 hours
India 14 to 15 hours
UAE 14 to 15 hours
Qatar 14 to 15 hours
KSA 14 to 15 hours
In countries where the sun does not set during Ramadan, such as some parts of northern Norway, Muslims follow the timings of the nearest Muslim-majority country to determine their fasting hours.
On the other hand, in countries where the sun does not rise during Ramadan, such as some parts of Antarctica, Muslims follow the fasting hours of the nearest country where the sun does rise.
In conclusion, the rules for fasting during Ramadan remain the same, including abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours of Ramadan. However, there may be some flexibility allowed in these circumstances to ensure that individuals can still fulfill their religious obligations while preserving their health and well-being.
This article was previously published on UAE Moments.To see the original article, click here