18 July 2012 - 15:50

The head of Iran's Amateur Astronomy Society, Masoud Atighi, says the crescent of the fasting month of Ramadan can be observed in Iran with naked eye at sunset Friday, July 20.

(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Atighi said that the crescent cannot be sighted anywhere in Iran Thursday evening, Shaaban 29, 1433AH, corresponding to July 19, 2012,

So, the fasting month of Ramadan will begin in Iran on Saturday and Friday is the last day of the lunar month of Sha'ban.

Muslims begin Ramadan based on the physical sighting of the moon by the naked eye which is usually confirmed by religious authorities.

Fasting is intended to teach Muslims about faith, spirituality, self-accountability and self-restraint.

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