How do followers of Islam acknowledge the beginning of Ramadan?

Followers of Islam acknowledge the beginning of Ramadan primarily by sighting the moon. This practice is rooted in Islamic tradition and is significant because the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, and months start with the sighting of the new moon. When the new moon is sighted, it marks the commencement of Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.

The sighting of the moon is not just a personal observance but often involves communities coming together to confirm the sighting before officially declaring the start of the month. This communal aspect highlights the shared experience of Ramadan among Muslims globally. Additionally, if the moon is not sighted, the beginning of Ramadan may be calculated based on the completion of the previous month, but the preferred method remains the physical sighting whenever possible.

The other choices do not accurately reflect how Ramadan begins within the Islamic tradition. For instance, attending a special church service is not relevant to Islam, as it is associated with Christian practices. Celebrating with a feast is more indicative of the end of Ramadan, specifically during Eid al-Fitr, rather than the beginning. Lighting candles, while a practice in some religions, does not hold a significant place in the Islamic tradition of beginning Ramadan. Thus, the moon sighting