ELI5: What is Ramadan and why do Muslims fast?

Ramadan is a special time when Muslims don't eat or drink from sunrise to sunset to remember people who have less and to become better people.

Imagine you have a big box of yummy cookies. Ramadan is like deciding to not eat those cookies all day long, every day for a whole month, until the sun goes down.

Why would you do that? Well, there are a few reasons!

• Feeling for others: Some people don't have enough food every day. By feeling a little hungry, we remember them and want to help them more. It's like sharing your toys with someone who doesn't have any.
• Becoming a better person: It's like a training camp for our minds and bodies. It teaches us to be patient, kind, and thankful. We try to be extra good during Ramadan!
• Remembering God: Muslims believe God wants us to be good and help others. Fasting is one way to show God we're trying our best. It’s like sending a thank you note to someone who gives you a gift.

• Muslims wake up early before sunrise to eat a meal called Suhoor.
• Then, they don't eat or drink anything until sunset.
• When the sun goes down, they have a big meal called Iftar with family and friends.
• They also try to be extra kind, pray more, and read the Quran (the Muslim holy book).