Ramadan starts today
Regional, Religion, 12/30/1997

Muslims all over the world started today their annual fasting month, Ramadan.

Islam as every other religion, insists on both creed and practice -- in other words, what you must believe and what you must do. Fasting is among these Islamic practices.

Fasting continues through the month of Ramadan, the tenth month of the lunar year. Since the lunar year is shorter than the solar year by ten days and some hours, Ramadan completes the calendar once every thirty-three years.

When the fast occurs in midsummer in hot areas, it entails real hardship, for no food or drink may pass the lips from dawn till sunset. Indeed, it begins before dawn because the time is set as that when a white thread can be distinguished from a black thread.

Young children and the mentally handicaped are exempt, and sick persons and travelers may postpone the fast but must make up the fast eventually. Smoking is also forbidden.

The night is generally spent feasting, and indeed the whole month is the occasion for great sociability. Strictly, however, the Quran should be read through once during Ramadan.

Previous Stories:
  Moslems of the world, be united   (12/30/1997)
  Ramadan start   (12/29/1997)

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