Ramadan

Islam · fasting · faith · community

The lunar month. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and lasts 29 to 30 days, starting and ending when people spot the crescent moon in the sky.

Daily fasting practice. During Ramadan, Muslims don't eat or drink from sunrise to sunset each day. This practice is called sawm and helps them feel closer to God and understand what it's like when people go hungry.

Quran revealed. Muslims believe that during Ramadan, the holy book called the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The special night this happened is called Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power.

Prayer and community. Muslims gather together for extra prayers and study the Quran during Ramadan. Families and neighbors also give charity to those in need, making the month about strengthening bonds with each other.

One of five pillars. Ramadan is one of the five most important practices in Islam, showing how central this month is to the Muslim faith and identity worldwide.