The Islamic world celebrated the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan on February 28, 2025, marking the beginning of this blessed time with evening prayers and community gatherings. The first Taraweeh prayer took place in various mosques globally, drawing millions of faithful who gathered to reflect and pray, remembering their brothers and sisters facing hardships around the world.
On this significant occasion, Muslims from Jakarta's Independence Mosque performed Taraweeh prayers, showing their devotion during this month of fasting and prayer, as described by local reports. Elsewhere, women prayed inside the Dome of the Rock at Al-Aqsa Mosque, reflecting the diversity and unity of the Islamic community during this holy time. Meanwhile, images captured the vibrant atmosphere at Istanbul's Hagia Sophia, where worshippers also offered their prayers.
Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, the head of the Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and Prophet's Mosque, announced the schedule for Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers this Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of providing worshippers with spiritually enriching experiences. With the participation of well-regarded imams, Muslims will benefit from heartfelt recitations of the Quran, cultivating deep devotion and engagement.
Prayer traditions during Ramadan are well-structured at the Prophet's Mosque, where the lineup of imams includes respected figures such as Sheikh Dr. Abdul Mohsen Al-Qasim and Sheikh Dr. Salah Al-Budair. Al-Sudais held special meetings to discuss the preparations necessary to maximize the Ramadan experience for worshippers, ensuring seamless organization and enriching the religious significance of this period.
With the growing number of worshippers attending the mosque during Ramadan, various logistical plans have been put in place to cater to their needs. Organizers are increasing staff to guide prayer-goers, updating the sound systems for clarity, and enhancing health services to provide comfort and safety. Special attention is also being paid to the flow of movement, ensuring easy access to the mosque for entrants and exiters alike.
Significantly, the last ten nights of Ramadan hold immense value, with many Muslims engaging deeply through worship and reflection, particularly seeking the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr)—an event regarded as being more valuable than a thousand months. These nights are met with increased devotion, as imams lead special congregations and encourage communal prayer among the faithful.
Simultaneously, prayer sessions at the Prophet's Mosque receive worldwide attention, as they are broadcast live via various media platforms, bringing this atmosphere of faith to millions beyond the boundaries of the mosque. This outreach highlights the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting Islam and Muslims, nurturing global connections through faith.
To maximize the benefits of Taraweeh prayers, Muslims are encouraged to engage actively through supplication. Dr. Atteya Lasheen, from the Fatwa Committee at Al-Azhar, recommended various supplications to recite during Taraweeh, which can strengthen one's spirituality. Examples of these prayers include beseeching for guidance and forgiveness, seeking compassion for loved ones, and asking for strength to continue through life's challenges.
Notably, Taraweeh—a voluntary prayer performed at night—serves as a means of obtaining forgiveness and is highly encouraged for both men and women. It is narrated from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who assured believers, "Whoever performs night prayers during Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven."
This tradition reinforces the importance of making the most of this holy month, as numerous communities hold special gatherings to encourage participation.
A question arising often is whether women can follow the imam from home through microphones; Dr. Shawqi Allam, former Grand Mufti of Egypt, confirmed this practice as valid, provided the women can appropriately follow the prayers, either through live sound or visible means. His response assured many families who face the potential of being unable to attend their local mosques due to various circumstances.
Overall, Ramadan 2025 promises to be characterized by enhanced community ties, rich spirituality, and vibrant traditions across the Muslim world. With continued dedication to prayer and supplication, believers hope to make this month one filled with mercy and blessings.
Let this time be one when individuals seek not only personal reflection but also communal peace and goodwill. Ramadan is often described as the season of giving, forgiveness, and unity among Muslims across different walks of life.