Ramadan is the holy month for all Muslims and will be observed by millions of Muslims around the world. Starting at the observation of the 9th new moon in the Islamic Calender, the month is also called Ramadan. This year Ramadan is expected to start on the 9th or 10th of July and finish 29 or 30 days later, so around the 7th August 2013. Ramadan is one full lunar month from new moon to new moon, the cycles and the sighting of the new moon varies a little as it can be difficult to see as the moon is closer to the sun in the evening sky at this time of the lunar month. Ramadan is a time for complete spiritual enlightenment and connection with God (Allah) and a time for restraint, reflection and renewal. Restraint Fasting is one of the most important elements of the holy month. Most Muslims will not consume anything during the hours of daylight. That includes no food or drinks, water or cigarettes, also married persons should not have any physical intimacy during the daytime hours. It is also expected as part of fasting to observe the mind and not think bad thoughts and act graciously and kind to all people during this time, whilst continuing with normal life and work. This is very difficult to do at the best of times, but this year it will be especially hard for Muslims due to the summer timing. Some Muslims are exempt from fasting, children and the sick and elderly, as well as pregnant women or those with young babies. The Koran (the Holy book of Islam) advises that these people should do the fasting when they are next able to do so at other times in the year, and make up the days they
Ramadan is the holy month for all Muslims and will be observed by millions of Muslims around the world. Starting at the observation of the 9th new moon in the Islamic Calender, the month is also called Ramadan. This year Ramadan is expected to start on the 9th or 10th of July and finish 29
