Ramadan Start in Suriname

In Suriname, a South American country with a diverse cultural landscape, Ramadan is an important period for the Muslim community, which makes up approximately 20% of the population. The Islamic holy month of Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon, which varies each year.

History and Traditions

The history of Islam in Suriname dates back to the arrival of indentured laborers from South Asia and Javanese workers from Indonesia during the colonial period. These communities brought their religious traditions with them, including the observance of Ramadan.

During Ramadan, Muslims in Suriname engage in traditional practices such as fasting (sawm) from dawn until dusk. This fast includes abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours as a means of purification and spiritual reflection.

Observances on Ramadan Start

On the first day of Ramadan:

• Fajr (Dawn) Prayer: The day begins with the Fajr prayer before dawn.
• Suhur: A pre-dawn meal called suhur is consumed to sustain individuals throughout the day.
• Intention (Niyyah): Muslims set their intention to fast for the day.
• Fasting: From sunrise to sunset, Muslims abstain from all food and drink.
• Tarawih Prayers: In addition to the five daily prayers, special nightly Tarawih prayers are held in mosques throughout the country.
• Charity (Zakat): Increased acts of charity are encouraged during this time as a fundamental aspect of Ramadan.

Many Surinamese Muslims also take this time to read and reflect upon the Quran. While fasting is central to Ramadan observances, it's also a time for families and communities to come together for Iftar—the meal that breaks the fast at sunset—often sharing communal meals.

The start of Ramadan is always a time for heightened religious devotion, self-examination, and increased charity towards others within Suriname's Muslim community.