The
Muslim month of fasting, Ramadan, began four weeks ago (on July 20)
with the sighting of the crescent moon, and today it ends with
another sighting of the crescent moon. Actually, because Muslim
holidays always begin at sunset of the day before, many Muslims
celebrated the end of Ramadan (which is called Eid ul-Fitr)
yesterday at sunset; but because Muslims in India could not see the
crescent moon until tonight, they will celebrate today at sunset.
You
may be wondering how Muslims can fast for an entire month, but the
month of fasting—not eating or drinking—actually runs from dawn
to sunset each day. This is supposed to redirect focus from “worldly”
activities and toward spiritual reflection. There is a pre-fast meal
each day before dawn (although it may consist of nothing more than a
few dates and a cup of water), and there is a fast-breaking meal each
day at sunset.
By
the way, it is worth noting that Muslim children do not generally
fast; nursing and pregnant women do not fast, and others may not fast
if there is a good reason (such as illness, age, or other condition).
Also
on this date:
