Ramadan

Ramadan

is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar; Muslims worldwide observe this as a month of fasting.
This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.The month lasts29–30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in hadiths.
The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramida or ar-ramad, which meansscorching heat or dryness. Fasting is wajib (obligatory) for adult Muslims, except those who are ill, travelling, pregnant, diabetic or going through menstrual bleeding.

Beginning of RamadanHilāl (the crescent) is typically a day (or more) after the astronomical new moon. Since the new moon indicates the beginning of the new month, Muslims can usually safely estimate the beginning ofRamadan.[16] However, to many Muslims, this is not in accordance with authenticated Hadiths stating that visual confirmation per region is recommended. The consistent variations of a day have existed sincethe time of Muhammad.

Fasting
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings ofIslam. The fast (sawm) begins at dawn and ends at sunset. In addition to abstaining from eating and drinking, Muslims also increase restraint, such as abstaining from sexual relations and generally sinfulspeech and behavior. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan also teachesMuslims how to better practice self-discipline, self-control,[18] sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity.
it becomescompulsory for Muslims to start fasting when they reach puberty, so long as they are healthy, sane and have no disabilities or illnesses. Exemptions to fasting are travel, menstruation, illness,...