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Ramadan begins in Saudi Arabia, U.A.E as crescent moon sighted, first fast to be observed tomorrow

Saudi Arabia and U.A.E confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon on Sunday, marking the beginning of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, occupies a central place in the Islamic faith.

Traditionally, the start of the month depends on the physical sighting of the crescent. As the new moon does not appear simultaneously worldwide, the commencement and conclusion of Ramadan are contingent upon lunar sightings observed in individual locations. Consequently, the dates of Ramadan differ across countries, typically varying by only a day.

Usually, the crescent of Ramadan is first sighted in Saudi Arabia and then a day later in India, Pakistan, and other countries.

Ramadan- a central tenet of Islam

Ramadan occupies a central place in the Islamic faith. During the month, Muslims, from dawn until sunset, abstain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs as a demonstration of self-discipline, devotion, and empathy for those less fortunate. This is why the month is commonly known as the month of fasting. In addition to fasting, Ramadan is a time of heightened spiritual activity, marked by more frequent prayers and acts of charity.

It was also during this month that the Islamic tradition maintains that the Quran, Islam’s sacred scripture, was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago.

Muslims break their fast when the sun sets with a meal known as Iftar. This meal varies greatly depending on cultural and regional preferences but often includes a variety of dishes.

The culmination of Ramadan is marked by the joyous festival of Eid al-Fitr. This celebration, observed on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal, is a time of feasting, prayer, and communal gatherings.

We wish you a blessed Ramadan!
Source: TVP World
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