Ramadan
Fast of Ramadan: One of the five pillars of Islam
Fasting is not unique to the Muslims. It has been practiced for centuries in connection with religious ceremonies by Christians, Jews, Confucianists, Hindus, Taoists, and Jains. God mentions this fact in the Qur'an:
“O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may develop God-consciousness.” (Qur'an 2:183)
Some Native American societies observed fast to avert catastrophe or to serve as penance for sin. Native North Americans held tribal fasts to avert threatening disasters.
China bans Uighur Muslims from Ramadan fasting
Source : Agencies | 03 Aug 2012
China banned Muslim officials and students from fasting during Ramadan in Uighur region.
Guidance posted on numerous government websites called on Communist Party leaders to restrict Muslim religious activities during the holy month, including fasting and visiting mosques.
The government has banned any public religious activities by the region's Muslims, according to a spokesman for the Munich-based World Uighur Congress.
Dagestani Muslims organize iftars
By Jamal Fulani | Assalam | 31 Jul 2012
With the beginning of the blessed month of Ramadan Muslims perform one of the pillars of Islam - fasting. During this month Muslims should abstain from food and drink between sunrise and sunset.
In the evening, with the call of the adhan for the evening prayer - Maghrib, Muslims end their fast. Breaking fast, or iftar, - an indication that another day of fasting is over. Muslims praise Almighty Allah, while breaking fast with dates, water, or candy, and perform collective prayer, after which have a meal.
Ramadan 2012: History, Dates, Greeting And Rules Of The Muslim Fast
Source : Huffington Post | 28 Jul 2012
What is the history of Ramadan?
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. The term Ramadan literally means scorching in Arabic. It was established as a Holy Month for Muslims after the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad in 610 CE on the occasion known as Laylat al-Qadr, frequently translated as "the Night of Power".
Exciting iftar parties at Prophet’s Mosque
By Yousuf Muhammad | Arab News | Madinah | 23 Jul 2012
Breaking of the fast (iftar) parties at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah are an incredibly spiritual experience.
People sit close to each other for iftar, reflecting Muslim unity and solidarity.
Many foreign pilgrims expressed happiness at having the opportunity to break fast at the second holiest mosque for Muslims in the world.
