Ramadan

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The month of Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims are obligated to fast from dawn to sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars (i.e., canonical practices) of Islam. During the daylight hours, eating, drinking, smoking, and other activities are prohibited. Muslim tradition relates that the major aim of fasting is to purify the soul from the materialistic aspects of life and to live more humbly, thereby increasing self-awareness and self-observation.

In recognition of the month's central importance, the National Library of Israel has collected valuable treasures related to Ramadan, including rare Quran manuscripts; photos of prayers; musical recordings for Ramadan; historical newspapers; and selected articles and events from the Library's website. These items allow you to enter into the rituals, customs, ideas and aesthetics of Ramadan. Enjoy!