The month of Ramadan is fast approaching, which is the period of obligatory fasting for Muslims around the world.
Ramadan is an Islamic holy month when Muslims may not eat or drink from dawn to sunset. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan falls at different times of the year. This year, it is anticipated that Ramadan will begin on August 11.
Muslims celebrate Ramadan as the month during which the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received the first of the revelations of the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
Fasting during Ramadan is the fourth of the five pillars of Islamic faith, the primary religious duties of a Muslim. All Muslims must fast if they have reached puberty and are sound of mind. Exceptions are made for some, such as the sick, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, and travelers on a journey of more than 50 miles. Those who are able, however, must make up the missed fast days at a later time. A Muslim who deliberately breaks the fast must atone by fasting two continuous months or feeding the poor.
Fasting begins at dawn and lasts until sunset. During this time, Muslims cannot ingest food or drink, smoke, or engage in sexual activity. The daily fast is broken by eating iftar (three dates and drinking water) followed by the evening prayer. At night, Muslims may eat, drink and resume other normal activities.
Ramadan is also a time for other religious activities. The nights are often devoted to special prayers and to recitation from the Quran. Muslims are encouraged to read one-thirtieth of the Quran each day.
Muslims fast to practice spiritual reflection, self-restraint, concern for others and obedience to God.
The end of Ramadan is celebrated by a great festival called id al-fitr. Id al-fitr means Feast of Fast-Breaking.