Ramadan 2025: Why Does It Change Every Year? :
Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic lunar calendar and holds immense significance for millions of Muslims worldwide due to fasting, prayer, and reflection. One common query is: “Why does Ramadan change every year?” This detail revolves around the understanding of the distinctions that exist between the lunar and solar calendars.
The Islamic calendar is based on a lunar cycle consisting of twelve months and lasting for about 354 days. The Gregorian calendar has a typical year length of 365 days and is based on a solar year. Thus, most Islamic years are about 11 days shorter than Gregorian years. This will ingrain a pattern in Ramadan to move later by 11 days every year, and after 33 years, all seasons will have observed it in the whole annual cycle.
The determination of the start of Ramadan is primarily based on the sighting of a crescent moon called the Hilal. The local religious authorities announce the beginning of Ramadan after confirming the visibility of the moon if it is clear. This depending on lunar observation makes it an element of variability, as different regions may well sight the moon on different days, leading to differences in the start date of Ramadan across the globe.
Ramadan’s significance goes beyond its time; it is a month for the spiritual elevation of fasting; from dawn to sunset, does provide a means of self-discipline, compassion for the less fortunate, and a more binding relationship with God. Fasting ends each day with an Iftar that usually begins with dates and water, followed by larger meals with families and friends.
Other than fasting, in Ramadan Muslims practice increased prayers, especially Taraweeh prayers performed at night and include recitation from the Quran. Such kind of devotion brings together the Muslim community into acts of charity and forgiveness.
As with everything based upon lunar calendars, the observance of Ramadan is dependent on the lunar sighting and, therefore, marks any yearly change of phases of the moon. Therefore, Ramadan reflects any annual changes in the phase of the moon as well as illuminates the necessary adaptability and community within which one provides service to their belief. The knowledge of how Ramadan progresses from one year to another creates an increased appreciation for this holy month, deeply engrained in the lives of millions.
