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Home > Other Astrological Information > Events / Festivals > Ramzan / Ramadan / Ramazan
Ramdan is the ninth month in the Islamic Calendar Year, a month when, in 615 A.D., Allah revealed the Holy Quran for human beings as a guidance and declaration. Islamic Calender is based on the Lunar suste. The practice of fasting during Ramdan is called 'Sawm'. To start fasting one has to sight the crescent of the new moon with ones' naked eyes. It is a period of worship and contemplation. Muslims usually go to the Masjid and spend hours studying the Quran and recite a special prayer called Taraweeh in addition to the five daily prayers.
Throughout the world, Muslims observe the Ramdan month by fasting and through increased concentration for purification of soul to increase closeness with God. It is a period of worship and contemplation. On evening, Muslims celebrate the Layat-al-Qadr with the belief that on this day in 610 AD, the Holy Quran was revealed to provide guidance, teaching, direction to all and also judging between right and wrong. Moreover, this day is believed to have influenced the course of the year.
Strict constraints are placed. Smoking, drinking, meat and sexual relations are forbidden during fasting. However, children, elderly, soldiers and the incurable sick are exempted. Telling of lies, slander, false oath and betrayal are considered most offensive during Ramdan and can destroy the goodness of fasting.
Celebration of Id-Ul-Fitr Fasts are traditionally broken with Souhoor before sunrise and iftar after sunset. Muslims observed for 30 days and fasts during daylight hours for an entire month. With the end of the customary fating during Ramdan, Id-Ul-Fitr is celebrated for three days. Gifts are exchanged and large meals are prepared. In some places fairs also held.
Ramadan day is observed as a holiday in many countries round the world, particularly in the Middle East.