Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims all over the world.
This year Ramadan began in the evening of Sunday, May 5 and ends the evening of Tuesday, June 4. During this time Muslims abstain from food, drink and other activities during the daylight hours. This time is used to purify the soul and refocus attention on God, self-sacrifice and sympathy for the less fortunate.
The end of Ramadan is celebrated with the holiday Eid al Fitr –Festival of Fast-breaking. On the first day Muslims go the mosque for a special prayer. This is followed by a three-day holiday in which families and friends visit each other, exchange gifts and socialize.
If you have a colleague who observes Ramadan, feel free to provide words of encouragement. Here are also some traditional or common greetings that one may use:
Ramadan Kareem: “Have a generous Ramadan”
Ramadan Mubarak: “Blessed Ramadan”
