Ramazan (Ramadan) in Turkey
The holy month of Ramazan (Ramadan) is a very important time for Muslims as it is one of the five basic duties of the Islam faith. Ramazan is a time of fasting, prayer, contemplation and celebration.
The dates of Ramazan move forward by 11 or 12 days each year, this is because Islam uses the Islamic lunar calendar.
Muslims observing Ramazan must fast during the hours of daylight, nothing should pass the lips, no food, drink, smoke or anything. Observant faster's will also not swim or shower during the day time fast in case water passes the lips.
After the sun goes down the Oruç (fast) is broken and faster's will celebrate with a feast known as Iftar (Breakfast). About one hour before sunrise faster's will eat a pre-fast meal known as Sahur.
During Ramadan Muslims try to visit different mosques to pray. Yatsi Namazi (night praying) is followed by a special Namaz (prayer) called Teravih, a ritual worshipping performed only on Ramazan nights.
The last 10 days of Ramazan are the most important as the faithful watch for the Kadir Gecesi (Night of Power) during which the revelation of the book to the Prophet Muhammad was completed. In a way it is considered the climax of Ramazan and many Muslims stay awake all night praying or listening to sermons from the Imam (religious leader).
At the end of Ramazan there is a three day holiday known as Seker Bayrami (Sugar Festival) to celebrate the end of the fast.