Muslims observe month of fasting
Ramadan is a special time of year, when Muslims take a step back from their daily routines and focus on community, charity, fasting and prayer.
During the month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims around the world fast. This year, Ramadan started on Tuesday, March 12.
Each lunar month begins with the sighting of the new moon. Muslims practise sawm, or fasting, for the entire month. Fasting serves many purposes, as while they are hungry and thirsty, Muslims are reminded of the suffering of the poor.
Fasting is also an opportunity to practise self-control and to cleanse the body and mind. And in the most sacred month, fasting helps Muslims feel the peace that comes from spiritual devotion, as well as kinship with fellow believers. Ramadan is a special time of year, when Muslims take a step back from their daily routines and focus on community, charity, fasting and prayer.
Muslims reach out during this time to help those around them. Ramadan culminates in great festivities after the 29 or 30 days, and Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwaal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
The editor and staff of the South Coast Herald wish all Muslim readers and advertisers well over the fast.
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