Ramadan helps a serious believer remold, reshape, reform and renew his physical and spiritual disposition and behaviour.

Muslims around the world believe Allah revealed the first verses of the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, during the month of Ramadan.

It is said that around 610 AD, Prophet Mohammad took to wandering in the desert near Mecca while thinking about his faith. One night, a voice called to him from the sky. It was the angel Gabriel who told Mohammad he had been chosen to receive the word of Allah. In the days that followed, Mohammad found himself speaking the verses that would be transcribed as the Qur'an.

During Ramadan, about one thirtieth of the Qur'an is recited each night in prayers in many mosques. This is known as tarawih. By the end of the month, the complete scripture will have been recited.

A devout Muslim recites prayers at sunset. Most Muslims visit the mosques to recite the Qur'an.

Photograph: Jewella C Miranda