Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr

The month of fasting: September 24 – October 24

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Islam uses a lunar calendar – that is, each month begins with the sighting of the new moon. Because the lunar calendar is about 11 days shorter than the solar calendar used elsewhere, in 2006 Ramadan will begin on Sept. 24. For more than a billion Muslims around the world – including some 8 million in North America – Ramadan is a “month of blessing” marked by prayer, fasting, and charity. Ramadan retains its focus on self-sacrifice and devotion to Allah (God).



Muslims
practice “sawm,” or fasting, for the entire month of Ramadan. This
means that they may eat or drink nothing, including water, while the
sun shines. Fasting is one of the Five Pillars (duties) of Islam. As
with other Islamic duties, all able Muslims take part in sawm beginning
about age twelve.

Fasting serves
many purposes. While they are hungry and thirsty, Muslims are reminded
of the suffering of the poor. Fasting is also an opportunity to
practice self-control and to cleanse the body and mind. And in this
most sacred month, fasting helps Muslims feel the peace that comes from
spiritual devotion as well as kinship with fellow believers.


Eid al-Fitr


Ramadan ends with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which in 2006 occurs on
Oct. 24. Literally the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” Eid al-Fitr is
one of the two most important Islamic celebrations (the other occurs
after the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca). For Eid al-Fitr people dress
in their finest clothes, adorn their homes with lights and decorations,
give treats to children, and enjoy visits with friends and family.


A sense of generosity and gratitude colors these festivities. Although
charity and good deeds are always important in Islam, they have special
significance at the end of Ramadan. As the month draws to a close,
Muslims are obligated to share their blessings by feeding the poor and
making contributions to mosques.


We at The Urban News ask that  you show religious tolerance and respect to co-workers, family members, and friends who are observing this month of Ramadan.by Ali-Ameer Siddiq