I notice the different ways Muslims observe Ramadan compared to ordinary days here.
To support my observation with facts, I asked my father who works in Saudi Arabia for more than 15 year; my Auntie Anne and Auntie Juvy, they are our Muslim housemates here.
What is RAMADAN?
It means “fasting”. All Muslims are required to observe 1 month of fasting for this is the time to signify the equality among Muslims. Regardless of one’s status in life, everyone is called to observe fasting. This is the time also to remind Muslims to offer themselves to Allah through prayers. Generally, this is a time of prayer, fasting, and abstinence from doing evil.
Is there anyone exempted to do fasting?
Yes, too old and young people, those who are sick, pregnant, women with menstruation.
We take a bath. We condition ourselves for the one month fasting.
What are the common DO’S and DON’TS you observe during RAMADAN?
1. We don’t sleep with our husbands on bed.
2. We don’t eat nor drink any fluids between 4:30 a.m till 6:30 p.m
3. No one is allowed to smoke.
4. We share blessings commonly food to one another.
How do you end the celebration of Ramadan?
After Ramadan, we celebrate EId ul Ftr . It signifies the break of fasting and we celebrate it by gathering together and sharing foods. Here in Saudi Arabia, it’s usually a 3-non-working days and we go to other cities like Dammam to enjoy beach.
My other observations here are most of the restaurants close during the time of fasting. No one is allowed to eat or drink. Non-Muslim people are not required to observe Muslim practices during Ramadan, however, as a sign of respect to Muslim faith, they are not allowed to be seen eating nor drinking especially in public area otherwise they will be reprimanded.
Muslims still pray 5 times a day which they call it “SALA”. Just like in any ordinary days, once it’s prayer time, Muslim workers are required to stop whatever they are doing and pray. If you’re in a public place like grocery, pharmacy, or any establishments, you will not be allowed to enter. If you are already inside, they will allow you to stay but they will close the doors and not allow anyone to leave. No employee will entertain your needs till the prayer time is over.
If you will ask me, how do I celebrate Ramadan? Well, needless to say I don’t observe fasting. I’m a Christian. But I can’t help but enjoy this season simply because my DAD has a shorter working hours and that means more bonding time for us!!! And what commonly bonds us together…..FOOD!
