THE BIG PICTURE...THE BOSTON GLOBE RAMADAN PICTURES 2010

[Bilal Mahmud المكافح المخلص]

Muslim men and women across the world are currently observing Ramadan, a month long celebration of self-

2010. (AP Photo/K.M.Chaudary) #

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Muslim girls offer prayers before having their Iftar (fast-breaking) meal during the holy month of Ramadan at a madrasa on the outskirts of Jammu on August 21, 2010. (REUTERS/Mukesh Gupta) #

purification and restraint. During Ramadan, the Muslim community fast, abstaining from food, drink, smoking and sex between sunrise and sunset. Muslims break their fast after sunset with an evening meal called Iftar, where a date is the first thing eaten followed by a traditional meal. During this time, Muslims are also encouraged to read the entire Quran, to give freely to those in need, and strengthen their ties to God through prayer. The goal of the fast is to teach humility, patience and sacrifice, and to ask forgiveness, practice self-restraint, and pray for guidance in the future. This year, Ramadan will continue until Thursday, September 9th. [Editor's note: This year, I invite you to submit your own Ramadan 2010 photos] (45 photos total)

Full article with pictures: http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/08/ramadan_2010.html