![](\"https:\/\/metro.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/GettyImages-1218396702.jpg?quality=90&strip=all\")
<\/p>\n [ad_1]\n<\/p>\n
Those fasting for Ramadan will break the daily fast with a special meal (Picture: Getty Images)Ramadan 2021 is now well underway, having begun in the evening of Tuesday, April 13 and lasting until Wednesday May 12.
\nThe month-long festival falls in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and is marked by Muslims worldwide by fasting during the day.
\nIt is regarded as one of the\u00a0Five Pillars of Islam\u00a0and commemorates Muhammad\u2019s first revelation.
\nBut just why do Muslims fast throughout the month \u2013 and what does it represent? Here\u2019s what you need to know\u2026
\nWhy do Muslims fast for Ramadan? What does it represent?
\nRamadan is a time of spiritual reflection and self-improvement for Muslims \u2013 who will refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours in order to focus more on their faith and avoid being distracted by worldly activities.
\nAs well as food and drink (not even water is allowed), Muslims will also refrain from a number of other activities such as smoking, chewing gum and sexual activity.
\nThe fast is also meant to remind Muslims of their dependence on Allah for sustenance, as well as to give them compassion and empathy for those who are less fortunate than them.<\/p>\n
The fast begins with the morning prayer (Picture: AP)It is regarded as one of the five pillars of Islam, along with Profession of Faith, Prayer, giving to charity and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.
\nMuslims who are able to fast start their day during Ramadan with a pre-dawn meal known as Suhur, and break their fast at sunset with a meal known as Iftar.
\nWho is exempt from fasting?
\nThose who are pregnant, breastfeeding or bleeding after childbirth, or who are menstruating, are exempt from fasting \u2013 although they should make up the days they missed later on.w
\nThose who are ill or travelling are also exempt \u2013 if they are unable to make up the days (due to permanent sickness, for example) they can pay fidyah, which is similar to kaffarah in that it helps pay for food for the needy, but also can be done on a daily basis rather than a full 60 days.
\nChildren under a certain age do not have to fast either \u2013 although no set age is given for when they should begin fasting, they are normally expected to do so around the time they reach puberty.<\/p>\n
\tMORE : Can you get the Covid vaccine during Ramadan?<\/p>\n
\tMORE : Chef Asma Khan\u2019s top tips to stay fuller for longer during Ramadan<\/p>\n