Ramadan Start in Serbia

Day: Ramadan in Serbia, as in other countries, is observed according to the Islamic lunar calendar. Therefore, its start varies each year. Muslims in Serbia begin fasting from dawn until sunset after the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of Ramadan.

History: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the month during which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The history of Ramadan is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and has been observed for over 14 centuries.

Traditions: In Serbia, where Islam is practiced by a minority (primarily among ethnic Bosniaks and Albanians), traditional practices during Ramadan include fasting (sawm), prayer (salat), and reflection. The fast begins at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib) with a meal called iftar, often starting with dates and water, followed by a full dinner. Pre-dawn meals are known as suhoor.

Mosques hold nightly prayers called Taraweeh, where long portions of the Quran are recited throughout the month. Many Muslims strive to read through the entire Quran during Ramadan through personal reading or during Taraweeh.

What People Do:

• Fasting: Abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations from dawn until dusk.
• Charity: Increased giving to charity (zakat and sadaqah) as acts of worship and compassion.
• Prayer: Engaging in additional prayers and attending mosque services more frequently.
• Communal Iftar: Sharing iftar meals with family, friends, and sometimes inviting non-Muslims to foster community spirit.
• Reflection: Engaging in self-reflection, seeking forgiveness, and focusing on spiritual growth.

Muslims in Serbia also maintain their daily routines while balancing work or school with their religious observances during this holy month.