The crescent moon, which typically occurs one night after a new moon, signals the start of the festival.
Ramadan will start on Thursday, March 23, 2023. One of Islam's five pillars, along with faith, prayer, almsgiving, and pilgrimage.
Muslims around the world will fast and pray during the month of Ramadan before breaking their fast with loved ones at dusk.
What is Ramadan?
The Quran's Chapter 2, Verse 185, defines the ritual's intent: "The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed; a guidance for mankind, and manifest proofs of the guidance, and the standard" (of right and wrong).
According to the faith, the Torah, the Psalms, the Gospel, and the Qur'an were all sent down on the first, sixth, twelveth, thirteenth, and twenty-fourth day of Ramadan.
When is Ramadan?
Eid al-Fitr is likely to fall on Friday, April 21, 2023 as Ramadan begins on Thursday, March 23, and is anticipated to end on Thursday, April 20.
Why does the date vary each year?
The lunar nature of the Islamic calendar means that each new lunar phase marks the beginning of a new month.
The Islamic calendar differs from the Gregorian calendar used in the West because lunar months are shorter than solar months. As a result, Ramadan starts about 10 days earlier each year.
Why do Muslims fast?
It is a time for introspection, restraint, and warmth designed to draw Muslims closer to Allah, which is why it is forbidden to engage in earthly activities like eating, drinking, smoking, or engaging in sexual behaviour during the day.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Every year, Ramadan comes to a close with the "holiday of the breaking of the fast" known as Eid al-Fitr.