Muslims, Jews entering sacred seasons

Jews began observing Rosh Hashanah at sundown Wednesday. Local Muslims begin Ramadan today. The convergence of the two sacred holidays is a rare event.

By Allie Shah, Star Tribune

Last update: September 12, 2007 - 9:53 PM

In a rare convergence, the start of the holiest seasons for both Jews and Muslims overlaps this year.

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, began at sundown Wednesday night. Meanwhile, Muslims observing the month-long fasting season known as Ramadan were getting ready for their first day of fasting today.

There has been some overlap between the two holy seasons in the past two years -- something that happens every 30 years or so. It's occurring in part because both religions use a lunar-based calendar, not the common solar-based calendar.

The convergence has sparked several interfaith activities this month, including a six-part interfaith dialogue series called "Peace and Violence in Our Religious Traditions," organized by leaders from several faith groups. The opening session will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Oct. 8 at Masjid An-Nur in north Minneapolis.

"It is a very good opportunity for the communities to observe very important holidays in their faith together," said Shah Khan, communications director for the Islamic Center of Minnesota in Fridley.

Don't know much about Rosh Hashanah or Ramadan? Here's a quick primer:

RAMADAN

What it is: Ramadan is the name of the ninth month on the Islamic calendar. Every day during the month, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. They also spend more time connecting with other Muslims, strengthening family and community ties.

What Muslims fast from: Food, liquids (including water), sexual activity and other sensual pleasures during the daylight hours.

Spiritual meaning: Muslims believe that their holy book, the Qur'an, was first revealed during the month of Ramadan. The fasting season is seen as a time of spiritual cleansing and focuses on forming good habits and connecting with God.

Traditions: Fast-breaking meals, called iftaar, are held every night at mosques. Special prayers are also held nightly. The fasting season culminates with Eid al-Fitr, a major holiday when everyone gathers for a big feast and children often receive gifts.

Greetings used: Blessed Ramadan, Happy Ramadan.

ROSH HASHANAH

What it is: Rosh Hashanah means new year. It marks the beginning of the new month, Tishrei, and the new year on the Jewish calendar. It is also marks the start of a 10-day period called the Days of Awe, a time of intense self-examination that culminates with another Jewish holiday, Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement.

When does it end: Conservative and Orthodox Jews observe Rosh Hashanah for two days, ending this year at sundown Friday. Some Reform Jews also observe the holiday for two days; others will observe the holiday's end at sundown today.

Spiritual meaning: The anniversary of the creation of the world, it commemorates when God begins to decide the fate of humans for the coming year. Jewish believers see it as a time to express gratitude and turn their attention to God. The whole season is focused on taking stock of the soul.

Traditions: A highlight is the blowing of the shofar, a ram's horn. The purpose is to signal the time of spiritual awakening. "It means wake up, it's time to get your life back on track," explained Rabbi Amy Eilberg, a consultant with the J. Phillips Center for Jewish-Christian Learning at the University of St. Thomas. Another tradition is eating apples and honey, which symbolizes the hope for a sweet year.

Greetings used: Have a good and sweet year, Happy New Year.

Allie Shah • 651-298-1550

Allie Shah • ashah@startribune.com

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