Ramadan is one of the five requirements (or pillars) of Islam. During each of its 30 days, Muslims are obligated to fast from dawn until sunset. During this time they are supposed to abstain from food, drinking liquids, smoking, and sexual relations. There are some exceptions, for example the young, however many of our students still feel obligated to participate.
Women typically spend the afternoons preparing a big meal. Most businesses have limited hours and many people take extended naps. At sunset, families often gather to break the fast. Traditionally families break the fast with a drink of water, then three dried date fruits, and a multi-course meal. After the meal men (and some women) go out shops where they drink tea, and smoke with friends until late into the night.
Though many have stopped fasting in recent years, and are turned off by the hypocrisy, others have become more serious about religion during this time. Many attend the evening prayer services and do the other ritual prayers. Some even read the entire Quran (about a tenth the length of the Bible). This sincere seeking makes it a strategic time for us to pray for them.
