Muslims around the world will soon begin observing Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection that’s central to the Islamic faith.

Expected to start on or around the evening of March 1, the holy month marks what Muslims believe to be the first revelations of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Observant Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, breaking their fast each evening with a communal meal known as “iftar.” 

The Islamic calendar follows a lunar cycle, meaning Ramadan moves about 11 days earlier each year. Its official start date is determined by the sighting of a crescent moon, which can vary by country and religious authority.

Political upheavals and ongoing conflicts often factor into Ramadan observances, as many Muslims focus prayers and charitable giving on those affected by war and displacement.

This year, Ramadan comes at a time of significant global unrest. In Syria, this will be the first Ramadan since the collapse of the Assad regime, marking a distinct turning point for the long war-torn nation.

In Gaza, where, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, more than 48,000 people have died in the war, the current ceasefire agreement remains in its early and brittle stages. 

Many Muslims also spend the month engaging in deeper study of the Quran and attending special nightly prayers.

The final ten nights of Ramadan are considered especially significant, with believers seeking divine blessings and engaging in extra acts of devotion. The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a holiday marked by communal prayers, festive meals and charitable giving.

According to the Islamic Network Group, the end of Ramadan is expected to take place around March 30, though its exact timing — like Ramadan’s start — hinges on the sighting of the crescent moon.

• Emma Ayers can be reached at eayers@washingtontimes.com.