Flashcard on Ramadan and Hari Raya

Front

What is Ramadan primarily known for?

Back

A month of fasting, abstinence, prayer, and reflection.

Answer explanation

Ramadan is primarily known as a holy month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community observed by Muslims worldwide. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. It is a time of spiritual growth, increased devotion, and acts of charity.

Ramadan is also significant because it is believed to be the month when the Quran (The Holy Scripture) was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

Front

The start of Ramadan is determined by...

Back

the sighting of the new moon's crescent

Answer explanation

The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon after the 29th day of the preceding month, Sha'ban, in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Once the crescent moon is sighted, Muslims mark it as the start of Ramadan and their month-long fast

This sighting is done and announced by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS)

Front

Who is exempt from fasting during Ramadan? Options: pre-pubescent children, menstruating, pregnant or breastfeeding women, travelers, and those with illness.

Back

pre-pubescent children, menstruating, pregnant or breastfeeding women, travelers, and those with illness.

Answer explanation

• Those exempt from fasting include pre-pubescent children who have not yet reached puberty and menstruating women during their cycle. Pregnant and breastfeeding women may skip fasting if it risks their health or their child’s well-being. Travelers covering over vast distances can delay their fast, while those with illnesses are excused if fasting worsens their condition. Frail individuals, such as the elderly or physically weak, and those with Special Needs who cannot comprehend or observe fasting, are also exempt.

Front

During Ramadhan, when will Muslims have Iftar (the breaking of fast)?

Back

Sunset / Maghrib Prayers

Answer explanation

In Singapore, the call for Maghrib prayers, which marks the time for Iftar (breaking of fast), typically occurs around 7:10 ~ 7.20 PM. The exact time varies slightly each day, depending on the sunset, and is usually based on the local prayer timetable provided by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS).

Front

What is one greeting you can use during Ramadan?

Back

Selamat Berpuasa

Answer explanation

"Selamat berpuasa" translates to "Happy fasting" or "Happy Ramadan" in English, a common greeting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. 

Front

What is 'duit raya'?

Back

Money given in envelopes during Hari Raya

Answer explanation

Duit Raya, which means "Celebratory Money", is a tradition during Hari Raya Aidilfitri where elders give money in small packets to children, and the elderly family members. It is similar to the Chinese New Year "angpao" and symbolises blessings, generosity, and joy. The money is usually given in decorative envelopes and is a way of sharing prosperity during the festive season.

Front

What is the difference between Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji?

Back

Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Ramadan, while Hari Raya Haji marks the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Answer explanation

• Hari Raya Puasa celebrates the end of fasting during Ramadan.

• Hari Raya Haji celebrates sacrifice and marks the end of Hajj.

Front

Which Organisation in Singapore announces the date for Ramadhan each year? Options: Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth (MCCY), Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS), Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore

Back

Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS)

Answer explanation

In Singapore, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) is responsible for announcing the start of Ramadan each year. The Mufti of Singapore will make the official announcement after confirming the moon sighting or calculations.

The Mufti is an appointee of MUIS as the highest Islamic authority in Singapore.

Front

Which of the following statements about clothing for Hari Raya Puasa is true? You must wear traditional attire. Families must wear matching designs or coordinating colours. It is mandatory to wear new clothes. There is no requirement to wear specific colours or designs

Back

There is no requirement to wear specific colours or designs

Answer explanation

Many Malay families choose to coordinate colours or designs for Hari Raya Aidilfitri to symbolise unity, but it is not compulsory. Some prefer to wear matching outfits, while others opt for different styles or colors based on personal preference.