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ThenMuslim month of fasting, Ramadan, began four weeks ago (on July 20)nwith the sighting of the crescent moon, and today it ends withnanother sighting of the crescent moon. Actually, because Muslimnholidays always begin at sunset of the day before, many Muslimsncelebrated the end of Ramadan (which is called Eid ul-Fitr)nyesterday at sunset; but because Muslims in India could not see thencrescent moon until tonight, they will celebrate today at sunset.
ThenMuslim month of fasting, Ramadan, began four weeks ago (on July 20)nwith the sighting of the crescent moon, and today it ends withnanother sighting of the crescent moon. Actually, because Muslimnholidays always begin at sunset of the day before, many Muslimsncelebrated the end of Ramadan (which is called Eid ul-Fitr)nyesterday at sunset; but because Muslims in India could not see thencrescent moon until tonight, they will celebrate today at sunset.n
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nYounmay be wondering how Muslims can fast for an entire month, but thenmonth of fasting—not eating or drinking—actually runs from dawnnto sunset each day. This is supposed to redirect focus from “worldly”nactivities and toward spiritual reflection. There is a pre-fast mealneach day before dawn (although it may consist of nothing more than anfew dates and a cup of water), and there is a fast-breaking meal eachnday at sunset. n
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nBynthe way, it is worth noting that Muslim children do not generallynfast; nursing and pregnant women do not fast, and others may not fastnif there is a good reason (such as illness, age, or other condition).nn
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nWithntoday’s end-of-Ramadan, there are celebrations of one, two, or threendays, which include special meals, giving to charity, and prayers. n
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nAlsonon this date:
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National Aviation Day
National Aviation Day n
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nRoot beer entrepreneur Charles Hires’s birthday
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