Ramadan is the ninth lunar month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims all over the world fast during this month from the beginning of dawn to sunset. During fasting, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking as commanded by God in His Book, the Holy Quran, which says: O you who believe, fasting is decreed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation. (2:183) A lunar month is the time it takes for the moon to orbit the earth - which is approximately 29.5 days. Therefore, the number of fasting days during Ramadan may sometimes be 29 days, and other times 30 days. But Ramadan is more than just about moon sighting and fasting. Ramadan is also the month during which the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Special prayers are also held. The entire Quran is recited. It's an opportunity for Muslims to get closer to God. A month when a Muslim should try to: See not what displeases Allah Speak no evil Hear no evil Do no evil Look to Allah with fear and hope At sunset, the family will gather for the fast-breaking meal known as Iftar. This is a time of fellowship with families, friends and communities, but may also occupy larger spaces at mosques, where a hundred or more gather at a time. Show Less >>