The sighting of the new crescent has not been established therefore today will be the concluding day of the month of Shaaban -
Malls and supermarkets gear up -
MUSCAT — The Moon Sighting Committee yesterday held its meeting under the chair of Shaikh Abdullah bin Mohammed al Salmy, Minister of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, during which it announced that the sighting of the new crescent of Ramadhan has not been established therefore today (Friday) will be the concluding day of the month of Shaaban and Saturday, July 21 will the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadhan for the lunar year 1433.
However, Ramadhan will begin today in some Arab countries, religious authorities announced. Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen, as well as Lebanon, were among those to announce a Friday start. But in Syria, Iraq and Iran it will start tomorrow.
During Ramadhan, Muslims observe a full-day fasting from dawn to sunset. Throughout the month, people learn several Islamic teachings and morals while fasting. For example, they participate in pious social activities such as charitable giving and peace-making.
Ramadhan is a perfect time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it.
Fasting teaches Muslims to demonstrate self-mastery over physical desires and to concentrate on the practice of their faith by controlling their sight, hearing, emotions and behaviour. While fasting, Muslims are required to watch over their behaviour: not to see bad things, not to listen to forbidden sayings and keep away from distasteful and offensive actions. They should practise their daily routine in accordance with the instructions of the Islamic rules, Sharia, in order to please Allah. Implementing the rules of Islam enables Muslims to follow the right path in life.
Throughout the fasting period, people’s personalities become more attached to Allah and Islam. This will be exemplified by their social integrity and various good deeds. They become more self-controlled, peaceful and compassionate as they are influenced by fasting which is a distinctive worship that gives special benefits.
Fasting also helps people to realise the blessings received from God and thank Him for them.
While fasting Muslims are encouraged to remember the difficulties and sufferings of the poor and contribute to alleviating their plight.
On Eid day, it is especially recommended to give alms for the poor and underprivileged people in society so that they can share the joy of Eid. People should never change this attitude and continue their good deeds and morals even after Ramadhan. The teachings of fasting should guide them throughout the year in order to safeguard the spiritual gains of fasting.
Meanwhile, the malls and supermarkets across the country are all geared up to welcome Ramadhan with offers, ranging from the widely seen offer packs to automobiles, as the countdown begins for the arrival of the month.
According to a survey, major retail outlets in the country make as much as 30 per cent of their total business in a year during Ramadhan.
The authorities concerned would be working closely with the malls and supermarkets to monitor the demand and supply trends and would benchmark the products with that of other countries.
