Muslim world to begin Ramadan fasting month

January 9, 1997
Web posted at: 11:15 a.m. EST (1615 GMT)

(CNN) -- The world's Muslim community of a billion people in more than 50 countries was preparing on Thursday to observe the start of the sacred fasting month of Ramadan.

In most Muslim countries, the month during which the faithful fast during daylight hours traditionally starts one day after the sighting of the new moon.

As a result, Ramadan usually starts on two or three different days in different countries. Several Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam in the 7th century, have announced Ramadan would begin on Friday.

In Saudi Arabia, people are warned not to eat, drink or smoke in public even if they are not Muslims or not fasting themselves. All sensual pleasures, including sex and listening to music, are forbidden during the day.

Reuters contributed to this report.

 

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Related sites:

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• Islamic Holidays and Observances - Ramadan
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