Ramadan and Christmas are the two most famous periods in religious calendars and they have some similarities and differences. Ramadan is a month of fasting while Christmas is a celebration of Jesus’ birth, Ramadan is celebrated at different times of the year while Christmas is fixed. Ramadan is a time for introspection and Christmas is a time for family.
We list in the table below some more similarities and differences:
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Why is Ramadan observed?
Ramadan is observed for a full lunar month and is a time for fasting and prayer for Muslims, following the command of Allah in the Quran which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. It has been practiced for over 1400 years.
Why is Christmas celebrated?
Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus by Christians who see him as the Son of God and a gift to mankind. It has been observed for around 2000 years.
How are Ramadan and Christmas similar and different?
| Ramadan | Christmas |
| Celebrated by Muslims | Celebrated by Christians and many non-Christians |
| A month of fasting to gain nearness to Allah | Celebration of the birth of Jesus |
| Celebrated at different times of the year following the lunar calendar | Set time of the year in December |
| Each person reflecting on the sins committed and asking forgiveness for them | Thankful that sins are automatically forgiven by Jesus’ sacrifice |
| A time for introspection | A time for family |
| A time for giving charity to the poor | A time for giving to family and friends |
| A spirit of compassion | A spirit of compassion |
| The masjids are full throughout the month | The churches are full on Christmas Day but the shops are full until then |
| A time to connect with the Lord | A time to connect with family |
| A month of fasting | A time to eat, drink and be merry’ |
| Self restraint | Over indulgence |
| Extra effort for worship | Extra effort for giving gifts |
| Decrease in food intake | Increase in alcohol intake |
