Saturday at sundown, Muslims across the world will join in observing Ramadan, which is the Islamic holy month of fasting,

During this month, Muslims will not eat or drink from sunrise until sunset or participate in any activities of "excess." They also will serve and donate to the needy and poor.

On Saturday, Aug. 29, the Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake has invited the public to eat with local Muslims during an evening meal as they break their daytime fast. For more information, log on to: www.utahmuslims.com.

Islamic head coverings come in many varieties

Hijab: The headscarf worn by some Muslim women.

Niqab: A full-face veil worn by a minority of Muslim women; prevalent in Saudi Arabia.

Burka: A full-face veil with an entire full-length dress attached; prevalent in Afghanistan.

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Abaya (or Jilbaab): A full-length, loose, flow-y dress worn by many Muslim women; this is an "easy" alternative for many Muslim women who find matching Western fashions and Islamic values is too difficult.

Hatta: A cloth draped on the head; worn by Muslim men, especially prevalent in Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian territories.

Kufi: A skull cap (very similar to a Jewish yarmulke, except it covers more of the head) worn by some Muslim men.

SOURCE: Maryam Ahmad

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