They could be your student, teacher, colleague or friend. Muslims are sharing ways you can support them as they observe the holy month, including fasting from sun up to sundown, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Schools and other organizations who have observers among their ranks also are offering advice. Here are some helpful things to know: What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer and reflection. It lasts about 30 days and commemorates the Muslim belief that God revealed the teachings of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Ramadan does not have a fixed date because its start is based on the lunar calendar. The beginning of the holy month is determined by astrological calculations or by spotting the crescent moon in the sky with the naked eye. The first day can vary for Muslims across the world, but it started early this week this year.