CULTURE
Ramadan
101 FACT’s ultimate guide to the holy month in the Qatari capital
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FACT JUly
What is Ramadan? Ramadan, the holiest of all months in the Muslim calendar, is a time for giving, peacefulness and devotion to God. Muslims from all over the world come in unison, fasting from sunrise to sunset for thirty straight days. It’s a festive time, one where generosity takes centre stage, and the atmosphere is buzzing with spiritual electricity. How does fasting work: Muslims are asked to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and practicing sexual activities from dawn to sunset. They are also encouraged to spend more time praying, and giving to others less fortunate. The idea behind fasting is to experience what the poor suffer as well as practicing self-control to cleanse the body and mind. Why this month: Muslims believe that God revealed the first verses of the holy book of Islam during the month of Ramadan.