It’s important to know what is going on during the month for in the lives of our Muslim neighbors so that we can be more strategic in our engagement and prayers for them. Following is some information that we feel is good to know about the practices during Ramadan.
 
Ramadan – The Muslim Month of Fasting
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. It is during this month that Muslims observe the fasting of Ramadan. The dates vary each year as it is based on the lunar calendar.

The first evening of Ramadan
In many places around the world Muslims were looking to the heavens last night. They were interested in knowing if they could see the crescent moon. If it was visible this will be the signal for the beginning of the month of Ramadan. (In most countries religious authorities will make a proclamation concerning the beginning of Ramadan). No fasting will take place till the next morning. Muslims will rise early to eat their breakfast before the day begins. Afterwards they will not have anything else to eat or drink till nightfall. This will be their daily experience during the next 30 days.

Fasting – Ramadan
Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of the religion of Islam and one of the highest forms of Islamic worship. Abstinence from earthly pleasures and curbing evil intentions and desires is regarded as an act of obedience and submission to God as well as an atonement for sins, errors, and mistakes. Called Ramadan (or Ramazan), Muslims fast during this holy month from the moment when it first starts to get light until sunset. Muslims fast as an act of faith and worship towards Allah, seeking to suppress their desires and increase their spiritual piety.    Fasting together as a worldwide community – Ummah – affirms the brotherhood and equality of man before Allah.