Its August 16th, which means that here in Dubai, we've passed the halfway "hump" of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
The word Ramadan is derived from an Arabic root R-M-Ḍ, as in words like "ramiḍa" or "ar-ramaḍ" denoting
intense heat,[2] scorched ground and shortness of food rations.
Could the word be any more apropos?
To those of us coming from Western parts of the world who are not Muslim - this month feels like Hell on earth. Not only do most of the shops close during the daytime, as the daytime is a time for prayer and reading of the Q'uran, but because business slows to an absolute camels pace (and not a racing one), almost all restaurants are closed, you are not allowed to eat or drink or even be seen HOLDING a drink in public, bars close, there is no dancing, no loud music and no (or very little) alcohol is served.
We pretty much do our best to flee the country during this time.
For the past couple of years, I have literally dreaded this month, trying to scheme my way out of every extra day of leave, scheduling travel for work when possible, sick days, whatever necessary to be able to endure the boredom that compounds during the Holy month of Hotness, here in Dubai.
This year is no different. However, I've learned a couple of things about Ramadan that I actually now embrace and enjoy and I thought I'd share them with you, for those who are not familiar with this tradition of the Middle East.
1) The Iftars. "Iftar" is the time of day that the fast can be broken and in general the word references large feasts where food is shared. The time of the Iftar varies each day based on the exact time of the Sunset. Muslims are not allowed to eat one bite of food until the sun has set past the horizon line completely. In fact, it has been made a rule here that for Muslims residing at the top of the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), they must not break their fast for 1 - 2 minutes later than those who reside closer to the ground because the building is so high they can see the sun for a couple of minutes longer.
How do you say "Crazy" in Arabic?
Traditionally, the Date is the first food to be eaten to break the fast and the "breaking of the fast" is to be done together...with family and friends. Many people gather in large groups either at each other's homes where a true feast has been prepared, or they join together in restaurants with Iftar buffets guaranteed to put the pounds on you faster than you can say "Inshallah". Think Thanksgiving dinner for 30 straight days. Its amazing. This is a part of Ramadan that I can say that I truly enjoy. Just check my waistline. You have to take care, however, that you let the Muslims who are fasting pass through the Iftar line before you do, as there is a frenzy at the buffet that has left me wishing I had wrapped my fingers in bacon for fear that they would otherwise be eaten right off of my hand. Definitely an experience not to be missed.
2) Shortened Work Days. It is common that businesses close at 2:30 each day throughout the Holy Month due to the fact that its Muslim employees are generally fasting and therefore not able to keep their strength up for a normal workday. Chris, for instance, gets off of work at 1:30 each day for the entire month of Ramadan. With normal pay.
3) The Spiritual aspect. Ok, so maybe I don't wear Abaya and Hijab, nor have I ever opened the Q'uran, but I can appreciate a person's dedication to their religion. Its admirable to see people sacrificing their personal enjoyment and comfort for something greater, even if its not MY "something Greater". The mosques, as well, are beautifully decorated during this month, covered in lights drawing people into it's prayer halls for daily readings and prayer time together. It's quite a sight to behold.
So, the Holy Month has its benefits and beauty. It might not be something I look forward to personally, but I can appreciate the warmth in the intention and faith. Even if I'm sweating my way through the Iftar buffet.
(photos by others)
