Press right arrow. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims. It is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. During Ramadan, Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs as a way to purify the body and soul, develop self-discipline, and grow closer to God (Allah). The fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the fundamental practices that guide a Muslim's faith and actions. The month is also marked by increased devotion to prayer, reading the Qur'an, and giving charity (Zakat) to those in need. Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday that marks the end of the fasting period, where Muslims gather for prayers, feasts, and the giving of gifts. The exact dates of Ramadan change each year because the Islamic calendar is lunar, so Ramadan shifts by about 10-12 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
