The first day of Ramadan is a really joyous occasion, as families begin on a month-long spiritual and family-oriented period of alternating fasting and feasting. Ramadan is the month in which Muslims believe that the revelation of the Quran was completed. During this month, Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. The month is meant to teach self-control, moderation, discipline, self-awareness, as well as awareness of others (such as those suffering from hunger on a daily basis) and is not only about abstinence but also about doing good works and especially charity.
In Egypt, the country transforms for this entire month into a different place (highly recommended time to come visit!). After sunset ("Magreb" in Arabic), families and friends gather and break their fasts together in celebration and prayer. (You can compare the meals in Egypt to an entire month of Christmas dinners - with a 3 day holiday of eating sweets tacked on at the end).
The following posts in the coming days will give a small glimpse into Egypt during this special and fabulous period.
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