Ramadan Start in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Day: Ramadan in Bosnia and Herzegovina begins on the same day as it does around the Islamic world, which is determined by the lunar Islamic calendar. The exact start date varies each year and is contingent upon the sighting of the new moon.

History: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a significant Muslim population, primarily Bosniaks, who have observed Ramadan since they embraced Islam during Ottoman rule from the 15th to the 19th centuries. As such, Ramadan has deep historical roots in Bosnian culture.

Traditions:

• Fasting: Muslims in Bosnia and Herzegovina observe saum (fasting) from dawn until sunset during Ramadan. This includes abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and other physical needs.

• Prayer: Increased prayer and recitation of the Quran are central to Ramadan. Taraweeh prayers are performed at mosques after Isha prayers.

• Iftar: The fast is broken at sunset with iftar, often starting with dates and water followed by a meal. Families gather for iftar and it is also common for people to invite guests or share food with neighbors.

• Charity: Giving to charity (zakat) is emphasized more during Ramadan. Many will give both through organized initiatives and personal acts of kindness.

• Community: There is a strong sense of community during Ramadan. People engage in communal worship and share meals.

On the first day of Ramadan, people typically begin their fast before dawn with a meal called suhoor. After sunset, families or communities may come together for iftar to break their fast together.

What People Do On This Day:

• Begin fasting according to the prescribed times
• Engage in additional prayers, especially Taraweeh
• Attend religious lectures or events focused on spiritual teachings
• Prepare special meals for iftar with traditional foods like pita bread, soups, meat dishes
• Visit graveyards to pay respects to deceased family members as an act of piety