Ramadan

This year, Ramadan begins on September 1, 2008.  Observed by Muslims around the world, the holiday of Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification achieved by fasting, self-sacrifice and prayers.  Celebrated during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims fast each day of the month from sunup to sundown.  Muslims may break the fast after sundown, until the next morning’s fajr prayer.  Fasting is meant to teach the person humility, patience and sacrifice.

Fasting during Ramadam is one of the five pillars of Islam, the belief that requires that Muslims perform five central duties in order to strengthen their faith.  While Islam has two major sects, the Sunnis and the Shiites, all Muslims aim to realize these five pillars in their lifetime. 

Ramadan concludes with a three-day festival known as Eid, which  means “to break the fast.” 

Learn more about Holy Days on the PRAYER IN AMERICA Interfaith Calendar.