Ramadan Ramadan (Arabic: ?????? Rama?an, IPA: [r?m?'d???n];[variations] Persian: ?????? Ramazan; Urdu: ??????

Ramzan; Turkish: Ramazan) is the ninth month of the Islami c 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 hadiths.[5][6] The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramida or ar-ramad, which means scorching heat or dryness. [7] Fasting is fardh (obligatory) for adult Muslims, except those who are ill, t ravelling, pregnant, diabetic or going through menstrual bleeding.[8] While fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from consuming food, drink ing 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 ar e 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 Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion an d worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam. The fast (sawm) begins at dawn and ends at sunset. In addition to abst aining from eating and drinking, Muslims also increase restraint, such as abstai ning from sexual relations and generally sinful speech and behavior. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan also te aches Muslims how to better practice self-discipline, self-control,[16] sacrific e, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of gen erosity and compulsory charity (zakat).[17] It becomes compulsory for Muslims to start fasting when they reach puberty, so l ong as they are healthy, sane and have no disabilities or illnesses. Exemptions to fasting are travel, menstruation, severe illness, pregnancy, and breast-feedi ng. However, many Muslims with medical conditions insist on fasting to satisfy t heir spiritual needs, and healthcare professionals must work with their patients to reach common ground. Professionals should closely monitor individuals who de cide to persist with fasting.[18] While fasting is not considered compulsory in childhood, many children endeavour to complete as many fasts as possible as practice for later life. Those who are unable to fast are obliged to make up for it. According to the Quran, those ill or traveling (musaafir) are exempt from obligation, but still must make up the days missed later on.[19]