 |
Weekly Online LessonOnline Lesson ArchiveGrade Level: 4-7
|
The Feast of Ramadan
November
27, 2000, marked the beginning of the ninth month of the Muslim calendar
year—a very special time for Muslims. During this month, faithful Muslims
around the world observe the Feast of Ramadan.
More than one billion people in the world practice the religion of Islam. They call themselves Muslims, which means "those who give themselves to God." Understanding this religion will help you better understand and know these people.
This week's online lesson is about the Islamic religion, the faith of Muslims, and the feast of Ramadan.
Ramadan on the Net
First
stop on this learning adventure is a visit to Ramadan
on the Net. Read the welcome page and read about the religious
fast that lasts for an entire month (no eating or drinking during daylight
hours). What do Muslims do during the evening hours?
Scroll down the page and click The Story of Ramadan. Here you can learn about the traditions and customs of the Fast of Ramadan. Why is Ramadan, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, considered a holy time? What are the five things that can destroy the good of the fast? What happens when the Fast of Ramadan ends?
Go back to the main
page and click The
Muslim Faith. On this page you will learn about the origin of
Islam in Arabia, and about the prophet Muhammad (also spelled Mohammed).
In
what city was Muhammad born and in what year? What are the basic teachings
of Muhammad? What are some things Muslims should or should not do?
Read the story of Muhammad by going back to the main page and clicking Muhammad and the Holy Quoran (sometimes spelled Koran or Qur'an). According to belief, who taught Muhammad verses from the Quoran? Which night of Ramadan is called "Night of Power"?
Before leaving this site, read President Clinton's Ramadan Message from last year.
Islamic Holidays and Observances
You can learn more about the practices, rituals, and observances of Ramadan at the Islamic Holidays and Observances site. According to Muslims, fasting during Ramadan has many benefits. It is a time to learn self-control, a time to worship, read the Koran, and to do good deeds. When you read this page about Ramadan you will learn some of the specifics of this form of worship.
When does Ramadan officially start and end? What food is commonly eaten to break the fast at sunset? What might Muslims say to congratulate one another after Ramadan?
© Copyright 2002
Learners Online, Inc.