The Islamic month of Ramadan begins
on Saturday, June 28 and ends on July 28, 2014. Fasting from sunrise to
sunset is mandatory for most adult Muslims during Ramadan, though
exceptions are made for those who are ill, travelling, breastfeeding, or
pregnant. Those participating are expected to fast from food and drink,
from smoking, and from sexual activity during this time.
Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam; Muslims practice fasting
during Ramadan with hope that it might earn them rewards and help to
cleanse their souls. Islam differs from
Christianity in many ways, the most important being that God has
extended grace and forgiveness to mankind by sending His Son Jesus to
die on the cross for our sins. Jesus Christ bore the wrath of God in our
place and paid the debt of sin in full. God will ransom all who call on
His name because of what Christ has done for us (see Romans 10:9-10).
The Islamic month of Ramadan is meant to encourage self-discipline,
sacrifice, and worship - Muslims typically recite the Quran during this
time and offer many ritualistic prayers (salat) to Allah.
During the thirty-day fast, Muslims are able to eat before sunrise
and after sundown. Many socialize and eat traditional foods together at
banquets to break their daily fasts. Ramadan encourages charity to the
poor, since good deeds are believed to be rewarded more abundantly
during Ramadan than they are during any other month.
In certain Islamic countries, those who are required to fast but
choose not to participate can face fines and even imprisonment. The
month of fasting culminates with Eid al-Fitr, a holiday of feasting, of
merriment, and of religious observances.
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