The word Ramadan, or Ramzan, is derived from the Arabic word ramida or ar-ramad, which means intense scorching heat.

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Muslim calendar. During this month, Muslims observe the fast of Ramadan. It is a time of worship and contemplation, a time to strengthen family and community ties.

According to some, the month is called Ramadan because it scorches out a person's sins with the good deeds that s/he performs.

Hundreds of thousands of Muslim pilgrims throng Mecca's Grand Mosque, Islam's holiest shrine, and gather around the Holy Kaaba.

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