Muslim holidays are scarce.Muslims should not take part in the religious feasts of the Gentiles, as by doing so they joined the rites of other religions.
Prophet Muhammad said that Allah has determined the best holidays for Muslims, and only they will be pleasing to him.Major holidays of Islam - is Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.In addition, there are five sacred nights, chief among them al-Kadar Lyailya (Night of Power or predestination).
Calendar Muslim holidays does not correspond to the Gregorian, that is, their dates are constantly changing.Muslims are the chronology of the Hijra, ie relocation of the Prophet Muhammad in 622 from Mecca to Medina.Time is calculated by lunar months.A year consists of twelve 29-bit or 30-day months.The lunar year eleven days shorter than the solar, which we use in the Western world.The day does not start in the morning and after sunset.
Friday - a special day for Muslims, because in this day the faithful gather for a joint ceremonial prayer in the mosque led by an imam.But Friday is not a holy day for Muslims, like Christians, or the resurrection of the Sabbath for Jews.Also, it is not a mandatory day off, or a day off work - the work is interrupted for a time of prayer.In many Muslim countries to this day closed schools, shops and public institutions.
Ramadan (Pers., Round. - Ramadan) - the month of fasting (Arab. Saum).This is the ninth month of the lunar Muslim calendar - the holiest month of the year, since at this time the Prophet Muhammad was sent down the first piece of the Koran.
during Ramadan, from sunrise to sunset adult, healthy Muslims can not eat, drink, indulge in sexual arousal.This post, unlike the Christian, is not intended for self-mortification.Man develops self-control, so that later it was easier to control their desires.Fasting also expresses its solidarity with the poor and hungry and strengthens piety.
During the month of fasting made more than usual to read the Quran and meditate.Exempt from fasting: the elderly, children, pregnant and lactating women, the sick and travelers.After sunset, all proceed to the first food intake (iftar) after which the night Muslims visit each other, meet in a public place.
During Ramadan, Muslims take the city a festive look, and in many offices and schools reduce the working day.
Night of Power (Arab. Lyailya al-Kadar, a tour. Kadir Gedzhesi) - one of the five sacred nights, and usually falls on the 27th night of Ramadan.That night descended the first five verses (verses) of the Qur'an to the ninety-seventh chapter (surah).
Muslims gather together to praise and thank God and spend the night in prayer.That is, this time, zealous worship, instead of celebrations and fun.
Holiday completion of the post (Ar. Eid al-Fitr) - one of the most important.It is celebrated at the end of Ramadan.Muslim holidays begin with a solemn joint prayers in a mosque in the early morning.On this day, thank Allah for maintaining the post, which saves from the fire of hell.
Muslim celebrations last for several days, during which time and visit relatives and friends.Muslims who do not lack, make special donations to the needy.
On Muslim holidays to congratulate each other, give gifts.Particular attention is paid to children.They receive candy and money, and in the streets to set their rides and entertainment.
Feast of the Sacrifice (Arabic. Eid al-Adha) - an important Muslim holiday.It lasts four days and is associated with the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Feast of the Sacrifice recalls the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his obedience to God.According to Islam, Abraham was to sacrifice his son to God, but God saw Abraham's devotion allowed him to sacrifice a ram instead of the baby.In memory of Abraham's act every Muslim - the father, if he is allowed to financial resources, sacrificing sheep, camel or ox.
The meat is divided so that one-third to give to the needy, one-third of family members and the remainder used for general holiday.
On the first day in the morning all together visited the solemn prayers at the mosque.Accepted read the Qur'an and make gifts.
During the Feast of Sacrifice, many Muslims also make donations to the poor.
