Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a sacred period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
Ramadan is considered the holiest month in Islam because it is believed to be the month in which the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the angel Gabriel (Jibreel). It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making fasting during this month a fundamental religious duty for adult Muslims who are healthy and able to fast.

During Ramadan, Muslims observe sawm, which involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset. The day begins with a pre-dawn meal called suhur and ends with the evening meal called iftar, often shared with family and community. Beyond abstaining from food and drink, Muslims also focus on spiritual purification, avoiding sinful behavior, increasing prayer, reading the Quran, and performing acts of charity.

Fasting during Ramadan is believed to bring spiritual rewards, forgiveness of past sins, and increased closeness to Allah. Muslims also engage in Taraweeh prayers at night, recite the Quran, and perform personal supplications. The month emphasizes self-discipline, reflection, compassion, and community solidarity.

Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday celebrating the end of fasting. It is marked by communal prayers, feasting, giving charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and social gatherings. 

Ramadan timings for the city of Zurich, Switzerland