Welcome to our celebration of Ramadan 2008. Join us as we countdown this week before Ramadan which begins next Monday, September 01st.*
In our countdown to Ramadan we’ve explored - what exactly is Ramadan and a look at the Five Pillars and the Muslim Faith. Today we’re going to take a look at when Ramadan is actually celebrated.
Ramadan begins when the first crescent of the new moon is sighted. Due to local weather and cloud conditions Ramadan can actually begin in certain parts of the world where the crescent is spotted. And delayed a day or so in parts of the world that cannot see the moon.
Because of this descrpency certain Islamic organizations have begun issuing an edict determining exactly when Ramadan is to begin. Making things much easier for their followers.
As for Ramadan 2008:
The first day of Ramadan (fasting) in North America according to sighting, is expected to be September 02. However, according to Saudi Ummul-Qura calendar, Fiqh Council of North America, and European Council for Fatwa and Research, the first day of Ramadan is on Monday, September 01, 2008.
According to a new Fatawa from Deoband, India, the first day of Ramadan in UK will be September 02, because the moon should be easily seen by naked eye from Australia to Morocco. In Pakistan also, sighting will be easy on September 01, and first day of Ramadan will also be September 02.
(source: Moonsighting.com)
Islamic Calendar continued…
Stop by tomorrow for our continuing countdown to Ramadan 2008. And for more information visit our holiday celebration – Ramadan on the Net.
*(according to Saudi Ummul-Qura calendar, Fiqh Council of North America, and European Council for Fatwa and Research, the first day of Ramadan is on Monday, September 1, 2008 – source: Moonsighting.com)