What is Ramadan primarily known for?

• A festival of lights

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

• Celebration of the new year

• A time for family reunions

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.

The start of Ramadan is determined by...

• The Muslim Calendar

• The Gregorian Calendar

• the sighting of the new moon's crescent

• the Alignment of the stars

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)

Who is exempt from fasting during Ramadan?

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

• Healthy adults

• Children of pubescent age

• Senior Citizens

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.

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

• 8pm

• 6.30pm

• Sunset / Maghrib Prayers

• 7pm

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).

What is one greeting you can use during Ramadan?

• Selamat Menyambut Bulan Haji

• Selamat Berpuasa

• Salam Lebaran

• Selamat Hari Raya

Answer explanation

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

What is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan?

• Hari Raya Haji

• Hari Raya Aidilfitri

• Eid al-Adha

• Eid al-Fitr

Answer explanation

Eid al-Fitr, also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Brunei, marks the end of Ramadan.

The day begins with a special prayer, followed by a visit to the graves of loved ones in the morning to offer prayer, and finally celebrations with family and friends. The day is filled with joy, gratitude, feasting while visiting loved ones, and seeking forgiveness from elders, making it a time of unity and togetherness.

What is 'duit raya'?

• A traditional dress worn during Hari Raya

• A special prayer recited during Ramadan

• Money given in envelopes during Hari Raya

• A type of food served during Ramadan

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.

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

• Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage, while Hari Raya Haji marks the end of Ramadhan.

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

• Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of Hari Raya, while Hari Raya Haji marks the completion of the Puasa

• Hari Raya Puasa marks the start of Ramadan, while Hari Raya Haji marks the startof 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.

What is a common activity during Hari Raya Aidilfitri?

• Seeking Forgiveness from Elders

• Eating festive food

• Attending prayers at the mosque

• Visiting Family and Friends

Which Organisation in Singapore announces the date for Ramadhan each year?

• Ministry of Manpower

• Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth (MCCY)

• Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS)

• Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore

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.