Holy Days
by Leah Miller

The ninth month of the Islamic calendar marks the time in which Muslims believe that the Qur’an was revealed. This month is known as Ramadan and it is one of the most important holidays in Islam. It is marked by four weeks of “fasting during sunlight hours,” says Ahmed, as well as charity and self-accountability. It concludes with a weekend of celebration and social gatherings called Eid ul-Fitr. This month is respected as the most blessed holiday and “creates one identity within Muslims,” says Ahmed.

Approximately 70 days after the end of Ramadan, the religious holiday Eid ul-Adha occurs, which also marks the day after pilgrims conducting Hajj (or the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia) return. Eid ul-Adha celebrates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah.