Ramadan is derived from the Arabic root word ramida or ar-ramad denoting intense scorching heat and dryness, especially the ground.

The word Ramadan is so called to indicate the heating sensation in the stomach as a result of thirst. Some say it is so called because Ramadan scorches out the sins with good deeds, as the sun burns the ground. Others say it is so called because the hearts and souls are more readily receptive to the admonition and remembrance of Allah during Ramadan, just as the sand and stones are receptive to the sun's heat.

The framers of this beautiful language may have been inspired by Allah (SWT) in naming this month Ramadan. The relation between heat and its properties is miraculously similar to that of Ramadan and the change it wrought in fasters. Just as heat generates change in shape and form as it molds matter - from metal and plastics, to plants and living cells - Ramadan affords a serious believer an opportunity to remold, reshape, reform, and renew his physical and spiritual disposition and behavior. Just as 'dhikr is the polish for the heart', Rámádhân is the polish that helps remove the rust from the physical and spiritual self.

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is compulsory on every Muslim adult.
The Arabic word sawm is used for fasting.

The word sawm (plural siyam) literally means 'to refrain', but as an Islamic term, it means refraining from food, drink, sexual and other undesirable activities from dawn to sunset. [1]

Diet During Ramadan Mohammad Zafar A. Nomani, PhD, RD
Health Guidelines for Ramadhan Dr. Farouk Haffejee
Night of Power Ahmed Sakr
Ramadhan Fasting and Diabetes Mellitus Fereidoun Azizi, MD, and Behnam Siahkolah, MD
Studies on Islamic Fasting Part One International Journal of Ramadan Fasting
Studies on Islamic Fasting Part Two International Journal of Ramadan Fasting

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