Ramadan and the Olympics

The month of Ramadan started at sunset, marking a period of fasting for observing Muslims. The holiday celebrates the time when the verses of the Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) and is one of the five pillars of Islam.

This could present a challenge for Muslim athletes competing in the Olympics, as fasting involves the absence of food and water during the daytime, which can last up to 17 hours in Britain.

This year, more than 3,000 Muslim athletes will compete in the Olympics, but many will not fast, a decision that has been sanctioned by religious authorities. Some Muslims are taking a measured approach, with some saying they would also postpone their fasts until they were finished competing.

Read more here: http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/07/20/227375.html

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