Ramadan Kareem

The Holy Month of Ramadan is almost upon us.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is when the Qoran was revealed. It is required, that if you can, you must fast for 3o days in this month, as it is one of the 5 Pillars of Islam. Men, women and children will go without water, food, smoking and abstain from marital relations from sunrise until sunset.

There are exemptions, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the sick etc. You may also take food/water etc on one day if you really need to and add it onto the end of the month. Some simply chose not to take part.

Ramadan begins with the New moon on Friday 2oth July and will end on Saturday 18th August. A 3 day celebration (Eid Ul-Fitr/ Festival of breaking of the fast) will take place after the month ends and the new month of Shawwal begins.

People observing this fast, have mixed thoughts. The main worry for many is the extreme heat we experience here. Temperatures nudging 50 degrees and water not permitted, to some seems incomprehensible and even dangerous.

I have always enjoyed the fast, though I do not take part, I really need to drink so much water constantly.
I enjoy the shift of life here. Days become very quiet as people stay indoors to escape the heat and rest.

The fast is broken at sunset. Streets are lined with mats and food ready to be eaten as the canon signifies the 'Break fast'
Buses, cars and motorbikes speed dangerously through the streets to be home and share the breakfast with the family and friends. Horns blowing, the sound is deafening, and the relief of the people is felt, at the thought of food and water passing their lips. It is really a very hairy experience to be out on the streets at 5pm, but one that must be done in my opinion.

Traditionally, Iftar is broken with dried dates. People stand in the streets and hand out the dates to the bus drivers and his passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and workers.

People will invite you to eat with them as well, we are always so surprised at the generosity of strangers here.

Night becomes day and the streets are alive all night, with dancing, eating and music.

It is a very thoughtful time, when people consider those less fortunate than themselves, share food where they can and be good to all.

This is the wall of a house as I walked home tonight. People that have traveled to Mecca, will paint the walls of their home in beautiful colours and images from their travels, telling everyone that they are now a Hajj.