Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. A commemoration of Muhammed’s first revelation, it is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and lasts 29 to 31 days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next. Fasting from dawn to sunset is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are not acutely or chronically ill, travelling, elderly, breastfeeding, diabetic, pregnant or menstruating. The predawn meal is called suhur, and the nightly feast that breaks the fast is called iftar. Although rulings have been issued declaring that Muslims who live with a midnight sun or polar night should follow the timetable of Mecca, it is common practice to follow the timetable of the closest country in which night can be distinguished from day.

During the hours of fasting, Muslims should refrain not only from food or drink, but also tobacco products, sexual relations and sinful behaviour, devoting themselves instead to prayer and the study of the Quran.