Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs.
The fast is broken each day with a meal called Iftar, which is usually shared with family and friends. Muslims are also encouraged to increase their charitable activities and perform additional prayers and acts of kindness.
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate ramadan eid, a festival that marks the end of the month-long fast. It is a time for joyous celebration, feasting, and giving thanks for the blessings of the month.
Here are a few cultural traditions during Ramadan.
Dates – Hurma
Dates are a type of fruit that come from the date palm tree, and they are small, oval-shaped fruits that are sweet and chewy, with a sticky texture.
Dates are highly nutritious and are a good source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B6 and K. They are also high in sugar, which makes them a good source of energy.The fast is often broken with dates because they are a natural source of sugar that can quickly raise low blood sugar levels after a long day of fasting.
Ramadan pita
Ramadan pita is a type of bread that is traditionally baked and consumed during Ramadan. It is a round, flatbread with a slightly crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior. Ramadan pita is typically only available during the month of Ramadan and is sold in bakeries and markets. It is a popular food during Iftar.
In some regions of Türkiye, Ramadan pita is topped with sesame seeds, while in others, it may be topped with nigella seeds or other spices. It is typically served warm and can be enjoyed on its own or used to make sandwiches or other dishes.
Iftar tent
Iftar tent is a traditional tent or canopy set up during the month of Ramadan. The tent is typically set up in public spaces, such as parks or in front of mosques, and is open to anyone who wishes to break their fast during Ramadan.
The purpose of the iftar tent is to provide a communal space to break the fast together, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The tent is often decorated with lights and colorful fabrics and is filled with tables and chairs where people can sit and enjoy their meal.
The iftar tent typically provides a simple meal consisting of dates, water, and a variety of traditional dishes, such as soup, meat and vegetable stews, and sweets. The meal is often provided free of charge by volunteers and is open to everyone, including the poor, homeless, and travelers.
The Iftar tent is a symbol of solidarity and unity, charity and generosity towards others during the month of Ramadan. It is a way for people to come together, share a meal, and break their fast in the company of others.
Ramadan drum
The Ramadan drum, also known as the Mesaharaty drum, is a traditional instrument used during the month of Ramadan to wake people up for a pre-dawn meal (sahur).
The mesaharaty is a person who walks through the streets at night during Ramadan, beating a large drum. The mesaharaty often chants traditional phrases and prayers as they walk through the streets, and their drumming and chanting serves as a preparation for the day of fasting ahead.
The Ramadan drum is a large, cylindrical drum made from wood and covered in animal hide. It is typically played using two wooden sticks, and its loud, rhythmic beat can be heard throughout the streets. The drum is a symbol of the Ramadan and even though it is not used in all Muslim cultures, it remains an important part of the cultural heritage of some communities.
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