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January 2008
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7 January |
Christmas Day (Rastafan) |
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Monday |
This event is marked by a large feast. The food eaten is vegetarian or vegan in keeping with Rastafari food laws. During the feast prophecy and readings take place, and a Nyabingi meeting will often follow.
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10 January |
Al Hijra, Islamic New Year (Muslim) |
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Thursday
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Historic event that marks the migration of prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Makkah to Medina, and set up the first Islamic state.
There is no specific religious ritual required on this day, but Muslims will think about the general meaning of Hijra, and regard this as a good time for "New Year Resolutions".
The Muslim calendar counts dates from the Hijra, which is why Muslim dates have the suffix A.H. (After Hijra).
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19 January |
Ashura (Muslim) |
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Saturday
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Ashura has been a day of fasting for Muslims since the days of the early Muslim community. It marks two historical events: the day Nuh (Noah) left the Ark and the day that Musa (Moses) was saved from the Egyptians by Allah.
Shi'a Muslims in particular use the day to commemorate the martyrdom of Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet (pbuh) in 680 CE (Common Era).
Every year in London Shi'a Muslims gather for a mourning procession and speeches at Marble Arch. The procession attracts up to 3000 men, women and children from many different ethnic backgrounds.
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Further information
Natalie Hill
Equality and Diversity Officer
Telephone: 01743 260 200
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