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Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and one of the most sacred times during the Islamic year. Fasting is the third pillar of Islam and is obligatory for an able Muslim to fast the entire month of Ramadan. To a Muslim, this is a time of inner-reflection, devotion to God, and self-control. Muslims fast during the daylight hours, and in the evening eat small meals and visit with family and friends. It is a time of worship and contemplation, a time to strengthen family and community ties.
During the Fast of Ramadan, strict restraints are placed on the daily lives of Muslims. They are not allowed to eat or drink during the daylight hours, and smoking and sexual activity are also forbidden during fasting. At the end of the day the fast is broken with prayer and a meal called the Iftar. The good that is acquired through the fast can be destroyed by five things: Telling a lie, slander, denouncing someone behind their back, a false oath, and greed or covetousness. These are considered offensive at all times, but are most offensive during the fast of Ramadan.
On the evening of the 27th day of the month, Muslims celebrate the Laylat-al-Qadar (the Night of Power). It is believed that on this night, Mohammed first received the revelation of the Holy Quran. According to the Quran, this is when God determines the course of the world for the following year. The Quran states that this night is better than a thousand nights. Therefore, many Muslims spend the entire night in prayer.
When the fast ends (the first day of the month of Shawwal), a three-day celebration takes place called, Id-al-Fitr (the Feast of Fast Breaking). Gifts are exchanged, friends and family gather to pray in congregation, and large meals are prepared.
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