In the depths of each night of Ramadhaan, Adam Esse would take his rounds in the streets of his small village called Sinujiif in Somalia, exhorting the sleepers to wake for suhur. Beating a drum-like iron container with a big stick, the young Esse would repeatedly chant, "Suhur Yaa Mu'mineen" Conjuring up those images years later, his voice became hoarse with emotion, 'I really miss it. Even if I used to miss one member of a house, they'd ask the … [Read more...]

Daytime normally constitutes of occupation with work and school, with many of the Muslim countries altering schedules to accommodate Ramadhan, and restaurants are closed in countries like Pakistan and Somalia, and no one eats in public during the day. While right before Maghrib the cities become like ghost towns, the streets, homes, and Masajid come alive during the night, especially after Iftaar. People visit each other, go to the bazaars and … [Read more...]

1. Es Teler, a Malaysian iced fruit salad drink for Iftar 1 can of ripe jack fruit 1 can of young coconut meat in coconut juice can of longan in syrup 1 can of palm seed in heavy syrup 3 ripe avocados 1 can of coconut juice vanilla flavoring Cut jack fruit, coconut meat and palm seeds in to small pieces. Scoop avocado meat with spoon, then add all ingredients and syrup together and serve over ice. 2. Qatayef, an Egyptian sweet for … [Read more...]

People try to read more and more Qur'an, offer nawafil and spend their time in dhikr during Ramadhan, a Pakistani sister said. "Allah instills in you more sabr and gratitude, and despite the difficulty of tasting, it is spent in a very happy mood." They also become conscious of things like watching television and listening to music and try to avoid it, she said. As Ramadhan nears completion, particularly during the last 10 days, people's worship … [Read more...]

Perhaps ironically, food is one of the most important elements of this fasting month. In Tunisia, the women prepare for Ramadhan by stocking up on groceries and cleaning their kitchens. If they need to buy any new utensils, this is the time to do it, Amer said. It is a must for suhur in Somalia, Esse, of Toronto, Canada, said. Pakistanis enjoy special dishes such as 'pheni', thin vermicelli, and "khajla," chunky pieces made from flour served in … [Read more...]

The Countdown for Ramadaan Begins. The countdown has already begun. Less than a month remains for the arrival of Holy Ramadaan. The very name of Ramadaan evokes a feeling of expectant joy and pleasure in the heart of the Mu'min. A restlessness overtakes the Mu'min in eager anticipation of the Holy month. Sometimes, this feeling even turns to fear and anxiety. "O Allah, will I see Ramadaan this year?" Allah alone knows who will live to see … [Read more...]