Ramadan 2008: September 1 - September 30

Ramadan is the ninth year of the Islamic year. During this blessed month, Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours. According to the Koran, the purpose of this fast is to cleanse the soul and cultivate piety. During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to refrain from any wrongdoing, including violence, lust, greed, envy, and gossip.

The fast begins each day at dawn, at the beginning of whiteness on one point of the horizon, and ends at sunset. In the evening, when the fast has ended, family and friends come together for special prayers and recitations of the Koran and to share a small meal. Ramadan is a time of worship and reflection and a time to strengthen family and community ties.

Ramadan ends with the Festival of Fast-Breaking, or Eid ul-Fitr. This joyous time is marked by the donation of a charitable gift. Muslims dress in holiday apparel and attend a morning prayer. It is a time to rejoice and celebrate the accomplishment of Ramadan.

Eid Mubarak!

More Ramadan information can be found at BeliefNet