Millions of Muslims and Christians around the world are beginning observances of Ramadan and Lent today, marking periods of spiritual reflection, fasting, and devotion in their respective faiths.
For Muslims, Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time of fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, charity, and self-discipline, while Christians observing Lent will also embark on a 40-day period of prayer, penance, and self-denial, leading up to Easter Sunday, with the observance of Ash Wednesday to commence the Lenten season.
Recall that Saudi Arabia yesterday officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447, and with the Hilal confirmed, the holy month of Ramadan began today, with Taraweeh prayers held after the Isha prayer yesterday night.
