Global Rice News

Welcoming Ramadan: Muslims Around the World Begin Month of Fasting, Prayer, and Feasting

As Muslims around the world gather to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, the festivities are bittersweet this year due to the ongoing war and starvation in the Gaza Strip. While countries like Australia, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore have already begun fasting, others such as Oman and Jordan will begin their observance of Ramadan on Tuesday.

During this month of dawn-to-dusk fasting, intense prayer, charity, and feasts, Muslims face various challenges, including rising inflation and difficulty accessing food in many countries. Despite these hardships, Muslims eagerly anticipate the spiritual blessings of Ramadan, which include prayer, reflection, and spending time with loved ones.

The Essence of Ramadan

From sunrise to sunset, devout Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual intercourse. Even a small sip of water is considered breaking the fast, as the main purpose is to concentrate on prayer and charity. At sunset, the fast is traditionally broken with dates, in remembrance of the Prophet Muhammad, and followed by evening prayers.

After prayer, families come together for iftar, a lavish feast shared with friends and loved ones. The festive atmosphere fills the night as Muslims indulge in delicacies unique to their regions. For example, in Indonesia, rendang (meat braised in coconut milk and local spices) is a popular choice, although its availability is threatened this year due to the country’s rice harvest and global food price inflation.

Despite the challenges, mosques and charities worldwide organize free iftars for the less fortunate, providing them with an opportunity to enjoy a substantial meal, sometimes the only one of the year.

Karachi’s Vibrant Ramadan Spirit

Karachi, in southern Pakistan, is renowned for its vibrant Ramadan celebrations. Maulana Tanveer Ul Haq Thanvi, an Islamic scholar, emphasizes the city’s devotion to this holy month, with the congregation at his family-run mosque swelling from 10,000 to 15,000 during Ramadan.

Locals are committed to supporting one another, especially those in need. Thanvi explained that people spend their days and nights observing religious practices and offering assistance to those less fortunate. As sunset approaches, families break their fast together before attending evening prayers. However, the lively spirit continues long after iftar, with children playing cricket in the streets.

Troubling Times: The Israel-Gaza Conflict

As Ramadan begins, the ongoing Israel-Gaza war casts its shadow over the Middle East and weighs heavily on the minds of Muslims worldwide. The conflict raises concerns about potential unrest beyond the borders of the war-torn region.

Despite the desire to prioritize acts of charity and avoid conflicts during Ramadan, the war in Gaza remains a significant concern for Muslims. The war, which began in October and has caused numerous casualties and an intense siege of the Gaza Strip, has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with limited access to electricity, food, and water.

As Muslims embark on this sacred month, they remain hopeful for peace and relief for those affected by the war in Gaza and other regions facing challenges during Ramadan.