Ramadan and Eid

Now that we have arrived--in the middle of Ramadan--, it seems the most appropriate place to start is with something educational. Ramadan is the holy month of fasting for Muslims--it is based on the lunar calender, so every year it takes place at a slightly different time, eventually taking place in all the different months of the year. Ramadan is supposed to be a time of reflection and introspection -- fasting (no food, water, nicotine, or sex) is from sun rise to sunset, at which point the fast is broken with the Iftar meal--a time to celebrate God's goodness and generosity with family and friends (food and drink taste extra good after deprivation, reminding you of God's blessings). Ramadan is also a period when Muslims pay their zakat--or percentage donation to charity. This lasts about 40 days and end ends in a celebration called Eid (eeeed)--which lasts from one to three days apparently, and is one of the two holidays officially approved by Muhammad. (supposedly, Muslims are not to celebrate birthdays and other things, although I think this is not exactly adhered to...). All in all, the spirit of Ramadan seems to be very special, even to an "outsider".

Now, that said, lets talk about what the period of Ramadan means to newly arrived non-Muslims in the second hottest place on earth......

In Dobby, Ramadan means no public eating, drinking ,or smoking. You can be fined if someone catches you (along with kissing in public or other "indecent behavior", but this is at all times). SO, all the restaurants, coffee shops, and other places to hang out are closed, except in the nice hotels and malls, where the food area is hidden behind thick black curtains drawn around entire restaurants--and Muslims are not allowed in. Considering yours truly has no Internet access, and Harry likes his ciggies, these limitations have posed some significant problems. I am all for respecting other religious practices, and cultural differences, but after a week of no Internet --and no water in the desert if I go outside, I can't wait for this holy period to be OVER. Lesson learned: Ramadan is NOT the time to visit us in Dobby !!! :-) Sadie