The date for this year's Ramadan, when observant Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk, has been announced in Saudi Arabia.
As a result of the new moon not being seen, the current month (Shaban) will continue for another day.
Because of this the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan will be Thursday, March 23.
The Hilal sighting Committee in Sudair, headed by astronomer Dr. Abdullah Khudairi, was unable to sight the Ramadan 1444 crescent on Tuesday evening.
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is when the Quran was first revealed to the prophet Muhammad.
Image:
Getty Images)Lasting 29 to 30 days, it is regarded to be one of the Five Pillars of Islam - but its 'start date' changes each year as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, not the Gregorian calendar.
Ramadan ends either after sighting the new crescent moon that indicates the arrival of the 10th month or after Ramadan’s 30th day.
A statement from The Muslim Council of Britain's Guide to Ramadan reads: "The month of Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic year as it is when the Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
"Muslims around the world fast during daylight hours, meaning they abstain from eating, drinking or engaging in sexual relations for the duration of their fast."
Image:
Getty Images)"Aside from fasting, Muslims observing Ramadan also increase in spiritual devotional acts such as prayer, giving to charity and strengthening family ties.
"Muslims are encouraged to share their food with friends, family and neighbours and to reach out to those who may be fasting alone, to share their Ramadan experiences."
While most Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan, they are also encouraged to carry out this behaviour at other times of the year too.
Not all Muslims have to take part in the fast to show their devotion, as young children, the old, the sick, travellers and women who are breastfeeding or menstruating are exempt.
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