For Arab-Americans and other Muslims, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, is of great importance. Ramadan is a time where Muslims focus on spiritual reflection, self-control, self-discipline, universal brotherhood, and worship.
Islamic tradition says the Holy Quran (book of divine revelation) was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad in Ramadan. During Ramadan, most Muslims observe: a complete fast from dawn to dusk for up to 30 days, perform extended nightly prayers, practice piety in all of its forms, refrain from personal vices, and give more to charity than all other months combined - in the belief that Allah (God) will forgive their sins. It is similar in concept to the Christian period of Lent. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Many fasting Muslims wake up early to eat a meal before sunrise known as Sahur, and have their next meal at sundown known as Iftar, but don’t eat or drink at all during daylight hours during Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr, or the Festival of Sweets, marks the end of Ramadan’s fasting period.
