Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Each year, you’ll see Muslims fasting from sunrise to sunset for an entire month. So, why is Ramadan such an important month for Muslims and why do they fast?
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle or phases of the moon. Healthy adult Muslims are required to fast in the daylight hours of Ramadan, which involves abstaining from eating, drinking, immoral acts and getting angry. For Muslims, it is a time for piety and spirituality; an opportunity to get closer to God.

Why is Ramadan so special?
Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) in A.D. 610. The timing of revelation is given special significance and is known as Laylatul Qadr or the Night of Power.

To commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an, Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan – aiming to grow in spirituality by building a stronger relationship with God. They do this through fasting, praying, reciting the Qur’an, making their actions purposeful and selfless, as well as refraining from lying, gossiping and fighting.

About the Qur’an
The Qur’an is made up of 114 chapters and is considered the direct speech of God. The Qur’an is supplemented by hadith, accounts of the Prophet’s life (his thoughts, words and deeds) by his companions – both are considered primary Islamic texts that provide guidance to Muslims about Islamic teachings and way of life.

About Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power)

In the Qur’an, Laylatul Qadr is described as:
“We have revealed it (Quran) in the night of power. And what will explain to you what the night of power is? The night of power is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:1–4)

While the exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, it is believed to be one of the odd-numbered dates in the last 10 nights of Ramadan. Most Muslims observe Laylatul Qadr on the night of the 27th.