The Muslim holiday of Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, reading the Qur’an, and charity. Islam uses a lunar calendar (based on the moon), and Ramadan falls on the first new moon of the ninth month; historically, this is when the Qur’an was first revealed to Muhammad. For one month, from dawn until dusk, people fast (refrain from eating and drinking) in order to develop self-discipline and increasing awareness and empathy for the poor. At the end of the month, families and friends celebrate “The Breaking of the Fast,” known as Eid-ul-Fitr. Families pray at the mosque, thank God for sending them the Qur’an, and have special parties with new clothes, gifts, and delicious food. Here are 3 lovely books that teach us about children and families celebrating Ramadan: Continue reading
