Lebanon: the first day of Ramadan on 21 August

Muhammad Hussein Fadlallah (Shiite)

BEIRUT- The Muslim fasting month of Ramadan will begin on Friday 21 August, announced Monday an authority of the Lebanese Shiite Islam Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah.

•    "The astronomical data show that Ramadan will start this Friday," said in a statement the ayatollah, whose influence extends beyond the borders of Lebanon.
  
      The Sunnis are still waiting for their part to observe the crescent moon with the naked eye, a practice also followed by some Shiite groups before determining the date of the beginning of Ramadan.
  
      In recent years, Sayyed Fadlallah announced the start of Ramadan in advance, based on astronomical calculations in accordance with Islamic scientific rules.
  
      During this month, Muslims must abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual relations from sunrise to sunset.
• Ennaharonline/ M. O.