Some of our students are currently participating in Ramadan. Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer and reflection. Fasting takes place from dawn to sunset and lasts twenty-nine to thirty days. Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Quran over the thirty days of Ramadan.
At sunset, families break the fast with Iftar, traditionally opening the meal by eating dates to commemorate Muhammad’s practice of breaking the fast by eating three dates. Lots of social gatherings take place at Iftar, often in buffet style.
The festival Eid marks the end of Ramadan. It is declared at the sighting of a new crescent moon after the completion of thirty days of fasting. Eid marks the return of the usual eating and drinking habits.
A couple of our students delivered an excellent presentation on Ramadan followed by a meal of Betsey’s delicious Kabsa. It gave students of other nationalities and insight into how their fellow students observe their religious festival.