Ramadan Mubarak!

The National Mosque, Independence Avenue, Abuja, FCT Nigeria.

Muslims across West Africa and the world began observing the Islamic holy month of Ramadan this week, (most on the 11th of August 2010). Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a month of fasting during which participating Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, (smoking and sexual activities!) between dawn and sunset. There are some exceptions including children below a certain age, travellers and the infirm. The day begins with a declaration to fast and a recommended light, pre-dawn meal , suhoor, and any consumption of food or drink should end at least five to ten minutes before the onset of dawn. At sunset, iftar, a light snack consisting of dates or desserts, along with liquids, such as water, juice or milk is taken, breaking the fast.


The fasting is intended to teach Muslims about patience, humility, and spirituality, and is a time during which more prayer is offered to Allah. During Ramadan, Muslims ask forgiveness for past sins, pray for guidance and help in refraining from everyday evils, and try to purify themselves through self-restraint including refraining from using angry words and indulging in selfish behaviour and charitable acts like giving to the poor. Common greetings for the start of Ramadan include - "Ramadan Kareem!" (Noble or Generous Ramadan!) and "Ramadan Mubarak!" (Blessed Ramadan!). 


As compared to the solar calendar, the dates of Ramadan vary depending on the moon and the beginning is determined by observing the stages of the moon. Traditionally, the beginning of Ramadan is declared when the slight crescent moon (hilal) marking the beginning of the month is sighted. If the hilal is seen at night, the next day is the first day of Ramadan and thus the first day of fasting. At the end of the month, when the community sights the hilal again, Ramadan is at an end. Using the traditional method can result in varying start dates as different parts of the globe may sight hilal on different days so in some communities astronomical calculations are used instead.

Photo source

At the end of the month of fasting, Muslims observe a 3 day holiday called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking) during which time common greetings are "Eid Mubarak!" (Blessed Eid!) and "Eid Saeed!" (Happy Eid!) This year, Ramadan will end on or around September 10, 2010. 

I believe Ramadan is also an opportunity for non Muslims (and anyone interested in learning from other cultures) to practice tolerance and consideration for others by being aware of the constrains participants are under and behaving appropriately. We could all do with being a bit less self indulgent a bit more charitable in our everyday dealings with those we encounter!


Ramadan Kareem!

Some information garnered from Wikipedia and About.com. Pictures - top, ITK West Africa, bottom, see link below.