Awaiting Ramadan 2024
By: Malak Hassouna /Arab America Contributing Writer
Ramadan is Islam’s ninth month and the holiest month of the year for many Muslims around the world. It starts and finishes with the arrival of a crescent moon. It is more than just fasting; it is believed to be “when the gates of heaven are opened, the gates of hell are closed, and the devils are chained.”Muslims believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed, on a night known as “The Night of Power” (or Laylat al-Qadr in Arabic).” Fasting serves spiritual and social purposes, including reminding you of human frailty, reliance on God for sustenance, and demonstrating what it feels like to be hungry and thirsty. Hence, you feel compassion for (and a duty to help) the poor and needy and reduce distractions so you can focus more clearly on your relationship with God. We refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and participating in sexual behavior from sunrise until sunset. Throughout the month, it is expected to attempt to control evil thoughts, emotions, and little things like swearing, whining, and gossiping. As we are a few days away from the holy month this year, we wanted to reflect on some of our favorite things during this time.
For many, the month brings its ups and downs; while the fasting might be draining and some questions, “Not even water?” can get repetitive throughout the month, there is much to look forward to, like feeling at ease. Prayers allow one to reflect on the small things and find gratitude for them. Still, the month encourages Muslims to be kinder, more patient, and look at the bigger picture. Even if you are celebrating away from loved ones, it is a moment for you to focus on your relationship with God.
Another thing to enjoy during this month is the fantastic productions coming out of the Middle East, whether it is waiting for the TV series like Kamel El 3dad pt. 2, starring Dina El Sherbiny, or Vodafone’s iconic yearly advertisement with killer stars such as Amr Diab or Amy Ghaneem. The Arab world has a way of gathering people around the TV to watch, laugh, and share some memories. Additionally, many cartoons teach children about religion, prophets, and the five pillars of Islam in simple ways.
Unsurprisingly, being around loved ones is one of the best parts of the entire month. Even those we have not seen in a while, we meet at Iftars or Suhoors around this month. In addition to fashion, are we even Arabs if we do not serve looks during the month? The 3abaya content that comes from this month leaves many in awe. If you follow Arab or Muslim content creators, such as the Asad sisters, you will be amazed by how much content they create for this month, from decor hauls to food recipes to modest outfits.
Who would we be if we did not mention the food? Or, as I like to call it, the month of Kunafa. In any Arab household, one of the must-have desserts is kunafa, and there is a variety offered in that month, whether mango kunafa, nutella, lotus, or whatever it is. Also, growing up, we spent many hours before Iftar in the kitchen preparing for the warak enab, sabosak, and macrona basmel.
The gatherings in the mosque to pray Taraweeh with your community, the shared love and sense of belonging that we have as we pray side by side in the holy month, leave us with a pure heart and thankfulness for the small things in life that we might overlook during these times.
The month brings us closer to our community and loved ones, bringing gratitude into our lives. With that being said, we acknowledge the fact that this Ramadan is going to look a lot different than previous years due to our brothers and sisters who are suffering in Gaza, especially with many partaking in this month; it will be challenging to celebrate this holiday while they are being bombarded. We hope a ceasefire is reached soon; we will keep them in our prayers.
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