By keely aouga
Every year, Muslims around the world fast during the month of Ramadan from dawn until dusk.
This includes abstaining from drinking (water included), eating and immoral acts. Acts of worship such as prayer and charity are also encouraged during the holy month.
Fasting is a way to purify the spirit and strengthen self-control, develop piety, patience and help Muslims understand what it's like to be less fortunate.
This year, the holy month of Ramadan began on Friday, Feb. 28. Because the holiday follows the lunar cycle, this isn't always the case.
While these are the calculated expected dates of Ramadan, they can differ from place to place based on sightings or lack thereof of the crescent moon.
The Islamic calendar is based around the lunar cycle, so the Holy month of Ramadan rotates by approximately ten days each year.
Some Muslims strictly follow calculations, while others strictly follow moon-sightings. There's no right or wrong, as people also choose to follow a combination of both.
In addition to representing the Islamic calendar, the moon represents the guidance of God on the path through life, in Islam.
The crescent moon and star is also a widely recognized symbol of Islam, though it doesn't have exclusive Islamic origins.
Based on the expected moon sighting next year, the holy month of Ramadan will take place Feb. 17 to Mar. 18, with exact dates to be confirmed.