WASHINGTON (Islam Online) - Ramadan most likely begins on Thursday, pending the sighting of the moon Wednesday evening, as the world's one billion Muslims embark on their annual month of fasting and spiritual renewal.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic (lunar) calendar, is cherished as the month in which the first verses of the Qur'an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). During the fast, Muslims abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse during the daylight hours. Observing the fast is one of the five pillars of Islamic worship.
Fasting is regarded as the cornerstone of self-purification in all heavenly religions. Restraining from worldly comforts, even for a short period, brings about sympathy for those who are less fortunate. The good spirit and joy that Ramadan brings is found in every Muslim household.
Muslims often get together to break the fast at sunset, and convene later in the evening for special prayers (known as tarawih) in congregation at local mosques. Many get up early for a special meal before dawn (suhur).
Many Muslim countries do not all begin and end the fast together, due to geographic locations and the Islamic laws dealing with the sighting of the moon. Some scholars say that astrological calculations are enough, while others say that the moon must be witnessed with the naked eye by a trustworthy source.
The differences in Ramadan's dates reflect themselves in the United States, where some communities choose to begin the month when their countries of origin begin it, and others beginning when Islamic organizations in America begin it.
The month is capped by a three-day feast known as Eid Al-Fitr, which will fall between January 7-9, also depending on the confirmation of the sighting of the moon.
