Ramadan (Arabic: رمضان Ramaḍān, IPA: [rɑmɑˈdˤɑːn];[variations] Persian: رمضان Ramazān; Urdu: رمضان Ramzān; Turkish: Ramazan) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar;[1] Muslims worldwide observe this as a month of fasting.[2][3] This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.[4] The month lasts 29–30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in the hadiths.[5][6] The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which means scorching heat or dryness.[7] Fasting is fard "obligatory" for adult Muslims, except those who are ill, traveling, pregnant, diabetic or going through menstrual bleeding.[8]
While fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from consuming food, drinking liquids, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations; in some interpretations they also refrain from swearing. Food and drink is served daily, before sunrise and after sunset. [9][10] According to Islam, the thawab (rewards) of fasting are many, but in this month they are believed to be multiplied.[11] Fasting for Muslims during Ramadan typically includes the increased offering of salat (prayers) and recitation of the Quran.[12][13]