Ramadan and the Practice of Sawm

Sawm, fasting, is observed most visibly during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, when adult Muslims who are physically able abstain from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib) each day. The fast begins with suhoor, a meal eaten before dawn, and ends each evening with iftar, traditionally broken with dates and water before the sunset prayer. Ramadan is also associated with increased night prayer (tarawih), Quran recitation, and charity. Exemptions exist for those who are ill, traveling, pregnant, nursing, or menstruating, among others — missed days are generally made up later, or in some circumstances compensated for by feeding those in need. The month closes with Eid al-Fitr, a communal celebration marking the end of the fast.