We're honored to support you as you discover the blessings of the holy month of Ramadan.
Your first observance of this Holy month of Ramadan may seem daunting, but we are here to help! Our programs to support new-Muslims are led by fellow reverts like yourself and provide resources for your unique journey.
In addition to programming catered to you like our Reverts’ Iftar Dinner or Coffee Chat with the Imam, there will be many Ramadan programs for many different audiences.
Bookmark the Ramadan Hub! The Ramadan Hub will let you know more about upcoming events and opportunities to get connected. Our outreach team can also provide some recommendations!
May this beautiful month bring blessings, growth, health, and safety upon you and your loved ones. Ameen.
Note: The Ramadan Hub is updated a few weeks before each Ramadan. We look forward to Ramadan in 2025, beginning around February 28, 2025!
What is Taraweeh?
Taraweeh refers to special prayers performed during the holy month of Ramadan. They are offered at night, after the Isha prayer and before Witr.
Taraweeh: The "Resting Prayer"
The term "taraweeh" comes from the Arabic word "tarawih," which means "to rest and relax."
While these prayers are not obligatory, they are sunnah and highly recommended. Traditionally, the entire Qur'an is recited during the Taraweeh prayers throughout Ramadan, so that by the end of the month, the entire scripture has been recited in congregation. The number of rakaat prayed in taraweeh varies between 8 and 20, prayed in sets of 2 rakaat at a time. Taraweeh prayers are considered a spiritual and communal experience during Ramadan, allowing Muslims to come together in worship, reflection, and the recitation of the Qur'an.
At IAR, taraweeh will begin 20 minutes after isha.
What is Zakat al-Fitr?
Zakat al-Fitr is a form of charity that Muslims are required to give at the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is obligatory upon every Muslim who possesses the necessary means to give Zakat al-Fitr.
Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr serves several purposes:
Purification of Fast: It serves as a purification for the fasting person from any indecent act or speech, and it serves as a means of making up for any mistakes or shortcomings during Ramadan.
Assistance to the Needy: It ensures that the less fortunate members of the community can also enjoy the celebrations of Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, by providing them with the means to purchase food and other necessities.
Solidarity and Brotherhood: It fosters a sense of community solidarity and brotherhood, as Muslims collectively give charity to support one another.
The amount of Zakat al-Fitr is typically equivalent to the cost of one meal (often measured in terms of staple food items) per person in the household, including dependents, and is usually given on behalf of each member of the household. The exact amount can vary depending on factors such as the region and the cost of living. For Ramadan in 2024, the amount is $15 per person.
Zakat al-Fitr should ideally be given before the Eid prayer so that the needy can benefit from it during the festival.
