It is that time of the year, the holy month ofRamadan is
here and officially begins July 20 according to The Fiqh Council of North
America. The council is a US based group that is affiliated with the Islamic
Society of North America.
Ramadan is calculated on the lunar calendar and
begins when the first crescent of the new moon is sighted. The official start
time differs among Muslims Many insist on physically sighting the moon to mark
the beginning of Ramadan. Others depend on the calculations of the Saudi
Arabian declaration.
Either way, the month is a time for Muslims to
re-evaluate their lives, to make peace with those that have wronged them, to
strengthen relationships with family and friends. In essence, it is a time to
"clean up" or cleanse ones life, thoughts and feelings.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast during
the daylight by abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. They
also fast or restrain from evil actions, thoughts and words.
"It is a time to reconnect spiritually by not
taking part in gossip and unlawful or sinful activities," Southern
California resident Samira said.
"It is a time for me to cleanse my body and
soul and re-focus my life."
Local Southern California mosques will be sponsoring
events during the month of Ramadan. To find a mosque close to you, visit The
Islamic Circle of North America's directory or
Salatomatic's list here.
Source : Examiner