The most sacred month in the Islamic calendar has arrived as Ramadan begins.
Every years, Muslims across the world fast during the most holy month in Islamic culture. The start of Ramadan changes each year, with the 30 days beginning based on the sighting of the new crescent moon.
The first day is determined by a moon sighting committee in Saudi Arabia, as the rest of the world sits in anticipation waiting for the sacred month to begin. But when does it begin and end this year, who is expected to fast and when? And what is the history behind the holy celebration?
The history behind Ramadan
The naming of Ramadan comes from the Arabic root "ar-ramed" meaning scorching heat.
The belief is that in A.D. 610., angel Gabriel appeared to Prophet Muhammad to reveal the Quaran.
This revaltation - called Laylat Al Qadar—or the “Night of Power” - provided the Islamic holy book and is believed to have occurred during Ramadan.
And now, Muslims use the 30 days of fasting to commemorate the special finding.
When is Ramadan 2023?
Ramadan will begin on the evening of Wednesday, March 22 and end on the evening of Friday, April 21.
Ramadan falls during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar - which is based on lunar cycles unlike the Gregorian calendar - which means the exact dates of Ramadan change each year.
When does fasting take place during Ramadan?
Throughout the 30 days of Ramadan, Muslims will fast between dusk and dawn.
The fast is then broken with a traditional meal called ''Iftar' each day.
The fast includes abstaining from both eating and drinking as well as partaking in any sexual intimacy until sunset. Many also choose to stop smoking, taking medication and even chewing gym during fasting hours.
Fasting periods can change and range from 11 to 16 hours each day, based on sunrise and sunset.
Many observers also choose to stay away from smoking, taking medicine and chewing gum during this time window.
Before fasting each day, those taking part will begin with a pre-fast meal called 'suhur', and then begin the 'fajr', the first prayer of the day.
The end of the fasting period will then be celebrated with the mean 'iftar', which means "breaking the fast", often shared with family and friends.
Who is expected to fast during Ramadan?
Muslims of able body and of sound mental health who have reached the age of puberty are expected to fast.
Those who are chronically ill, have conditions such as diabetes are not expected to fast. Pregnant and breastfeeding woman are also exempt as well as those who are travelling or menstruating.
Children and the elderly are also not expected to take part in fasting.
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