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What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic (lunar) calendar, known as the ‘Hijri’ calendar –the calendar of migration –in the Arabic language. It starts from the day the Prophet Mohammed migrated from the city of Makah to the city of Medina, in Saudi Arabia. It has Islamic significance because it is the month the Qur’an was descended upon and revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. It is also the month of fasting for Muslims. The Arabic word Ramadmeans heat or drought. So, the literal meaning of Ramadan is the month of heat/drought. It symbolisesabstinence from drinking water during the hours of fasting: dawn to dusk.
Why do people fast during Ramadan? Ramadan is a once-a-year spiritual recharge and boost for Muslims. Fasting allows Muslims to test their self-restraint and to control their desires. It serves as a reminder to distinguish between ‘needs’ and ‘wants’ and to live a balanced life, free from excess.