During Ramadan, devout Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex for a month from dawn to dusk. In the evening, people traditionally meet to break the fast together. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam.
In Austria, according to the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ), Ramadan began on Wednesday evening this year, so the first day of fasting is Thursday. Ramadan is also a time of contemplation, renunciation and gratitude, said IGGÖ President Ümit Vural, according to a broadcast. “We take many things in our lives for granted, be it the roof over our heads, the heating system working, the refrigerator full, healthy children or a loving partner. As a month of reflection, Ramadan teaches us to appreciate the many blessings in to become aware of our life.” The IGGÖ is therefore putting this year’s Ramadan under the motto “Time for gratitude”.
It is estimated that there are around 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s two holiest sites, Mecca and Medina, Thursday will be the first day of fasting.
