ByGeorge!

Nov. 4, 2003

GW Student Groups to Host Iftar Nov. 11


In celebration of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, the Program Board, Muslim Student Association and Jewish Student Association, in cooperation with the Office of the President, will host an Iftar, a ceremonial meal at sundown, breaking the daily Ramadan fast, Nov. 11 at 4 pm in the Grand Ballroom of the Marvin Center’s Cafritz Conference Center. The event is free and open to the public, however, tickets from the Program Board are required.

Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is believed to be when the Holy Quran “was sent down from heaven, a guidance unto men, a declaration of direction, and a means of Salvation.” The month officially began Oct. 27, after the Islamic Shura Council of North America and Fiqh Council of North America agreed that there were no confirmed moon-sighting reports on the evening of Oct. 25, the 29th of Sha’ban. The month will continue for no more than 30 days or until the next moon sighting has been established.

Similar to the Jewish observance of Yom Kippur, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk during Ramadan, practicing self control while seeking inner reflection and devotion to God.

Muslim students share the breaking of their daily fast with the traditional offering of dates followed by a Middle Eastern meal, as well as Kosher-approved food. The Muslim expression for wishing peace, “As-salaam Alaikum,” will be heard often throughout the evening.


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