Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Ramadan

RAMADAN, the ninth month in the Mohammedan year. In it Mohammed received his first revelation, and every believer is therefore enjoined to keep a strict fast throughout its entire course, from the dawn—when a white thread can be distinguished from a black thread—to sunset. During the night, however, the most necessary wants may be satisfied—a permission which, practically, is interpreted by a profuse indulgence in all sorts of enjoyments. The sick, travelers, and soldiers in time of war are temporarily released from this duty, but they have to fast an equal number of days at a subsequent period when this impediment is removed. Nurses, pregnant women, and those to whom it might prove really injurious are expressly exempt from fasting.