Muslims in Indonesia (Photo: VNA) Jakarta (VNA) – The holy month of Ramadan has started after several terrorism attacks occurred in Indonesia overthe past few days, with the government warning about possible future attacks.
However, Ramadan is still the most anticipatedtime of the year for Indonesian Muslims. During the holy month, they abstainfrom food, drink, cigarettes and other pleasures from sunrise to sunset.
Ramadan is the time Muslims believe God startedto reveal the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. For believers, Ramadan is a timeof reflection and worship, remembering the hardships of others and beingcharitable. They gather at mosques to attend ceremonies held at noon.
A festival of breaking the fast, called Labaranin Indonesian, also known as Eid El Fitr or Idul Fitri, marks the end of themonth-long fast of Ramadan and the beginning of a new month.
Shabah Syamsi, head of the management board ofthe Al Azhar Agung mosque in Jakarta capital city, said the mosque has preparedand set up temporary shelters since more people will come than usual. About3,000 believers will come to the mosque to pray, read the Quran, listen toteachings and receive free meals after 18:00.
Al Azhar Agung is the largest mosque in southJakarta, with up to 30,000 people coming to pray at peak time. Security isconsidered the top priority during the holy month, as local authorities haveincreased security measures, especially at night, to ensure safety forbelievers.-VNA
