Ramadan, a deeply significant time for Muslims around the world, is a month-long period that varies in fasting duration depending on geographical location. In this blog post, we will examine the essence of Ramadan and fasting, the varying fasting times around the world, and countries that experience the longest and shortest fasting hours. Additionally, we will provide insights into fasting in India and the Middle East and conclude with the top 10 countries with the most extended and briefest fasting hours.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, commemorated by Muslims worldwide as a time of introspection, prayer, and spiritual growth. It is believed that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during this month. Observing Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it an essential aspect of a Muslim's faith and practice.
What is Fasting?
Fasting, or Sawm in Arabic, is the practice of abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset during Ramadan. Fasting is an act of worship and devotion, enabling Muslims to draw closer to Allah, increase self-discipline, and develop empathy for the less fortunate. It is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims, with some exceptions, such as the elderly, pregnant, or ill individuals.
Ramadan Time Around the World
As the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, the start and end of Ramadan shift approximately 11 days earlier each year according to the Gregorian calendar. Consequently, the duration of daylight hours during which Muslims fast varies globally due to factors like geographical location and season.
Which Country Fasts the Longest in the World?
During the summer months, countries in higher latitudes, such as Iceland and Norway, experience the most prolonged fasting hours globally. In Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, fasting durations can extend up to 22 hours during peak summer days.
Which Country Fasts the Shortest in the World?
On the other hand, countries near the equator, like Argentina and Chile, observe the briefest fasting durations. In Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, fasting times can be as short as 11 hours during the winter months.
How Long is Fasting in India?
India, with its diverse geography, experiences varying fasting durations across the country. In general, fasting hours range from approximately 14 to 16 hours, depending on the region and time of year.
Fasting in the Middle East
In the Middle East, the cradle of Islam, fasting times are relatively consistent due to the region's proximity to the equator. Fasting durations typically range between 14 and 16 hours, with slight variations based on the time of year and specific location.
Here are the approximate fasting durations for selected countries, keeping in mind that these hours may vary slightly due to factors like geographical location, time of year, and regional sunrise and sunset times.
Countries with Longest Fasting Hours:
- Iceland - Up to 22 hours
- Norway - 18 to 20 hours
- Sweden - 18 to 19 hours
- Finland - 18 to 19 hours
- Denmark - 17 to 18 hours
- Russia (northern regions) - 17 to 18 hours
- Canada (northern regions) - 17 to 18 hours
- United Kingdom - 16 to 18 hours
- Estonia - 16 to 18 hours
- Latvia - 16 to 18 hours
Countries with Shortest Fasting Hours:
- Argentina - 11 to 13 hours
- Chile - 11 to 13 hours
- Uruguay - 11 to 13 hours
- Paraguay - 11 to 13 hours
- South Africa - 11 to 14 hours
- Australia - 11 to 14 hours
- New Zealand - 11 to 14 hours
- Indonesia - 12 to 14 hours
- Malaysia - 12 to 14 hours
- Equatorial Guinea - 12 to 14 hours
Source: aljazeera
It is important to note that these durations are estimates and may not be applicable in every region within the mentioned countries. Additionally, fasting hours change every day throughout Ramadan due to shifts in sunrise and sunset times.
No comments