Muslim World Marks Ramadan

Posted July 31st, 2011 at 1:30 pm (UTC-5)
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Muslims around the world are observing Ramadan, the holiest month on the Islamic calendar.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The start of the holiday is determined by the appearance of the new moon.

Ramadan marks the time more than 1,400 years ago when Muslims believe the words of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Mohammed.

During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to fast and also to abstain from smoking and sex from dawn until sunset. Some Muslims adhere to a broader definition of self-restraint that includes focusing on a re-evaluation of their lives.

Ramadan ends with a celebration called Eid al-Fitr.