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This year, Ramadan in Palestine is notably different. The ongoing war against the Muslims in Gaza has cast a shadow over the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. In Palestine, where there are strong religious and cultural practices, Ramadan used to be the most celebrated month of the year.
Before War: How Ramadan in Palestine used to be?
Talking to the natives of Palestine, we get to know how rich and exciting the culture of the month of Ramadan used to be in Palestine. The preps would start weeks before the Ramadan even began. People would rush to markets like Al-Zawiya being the most popular market in Gaza, to buy food items for Suhoor and Iftar. The most essential picks used to be the dried Apricots, dry fruits, Kharoub (Carob), Olives, Pickles or meat to make delicious dishes during the holy month. Women would buy new prayer gowns and mats and the children would hop on the colorful lanterns and fireworks for the first day of Ramadan.
Suhoor and Iftar
The Mesahratis (the dawn awakeners) would beat drums and sing awakening songs in the Suhoor around the cities. After suhoor man, women children would gather to offer the Fajar prayer together and then take a nap.
Iftar had different menus set for each corner of Palestine. In Gaza, Maqluba (a meat dish with rice and vegetables), Sumaghiyyeh or Maftoul would be prepared. In the West Bank, people used to make Musakhan (a chicken dish) or Mansaf.
Then the most joyous time of the day for children was when moms would prepare Qatayef, a popular dessert that is only made during the holy month. Alongside qatayef they would also make Harissa or Basbaousa and the most famous one was cheese Kanafah. People would exchange the dishes in the neighborhood and then gather to pray Tarawih together.
After War: What has changed?
The ongoing genocide committed against the Palestinian people by the Israeli military has had a huge impact on Ramadan, as it does on many other parts of life. The joyous and the most celebrated month has turned into tears, ashes and bloodshed.
According to data on the internet, as of February 29th, the Gaza Health Ministry reports that at least 30,000 Palestinians (including over 10,000 children) have been killed, over 70,000 injured, and over 110,000 casualties since the war began, which is about 5% of Gaza’s 2.3 million population. In addition, there is a shortage of food and water, extreme overcrowding in shelters for the displaced, and no electricity due to a lack of fuel. Health care systems are collapsing. The 2.2 million people who live in Gaza are either severely food insecure or in a state of crisis. The aftermath is even more devastating. Children with all their family members dead or parents with their children gone forever are left with nothing but horrible memories and shattering confidence to begin their life again with near to no hopes of a better tomorrow.
The Story of Resilience and Hope
Despite these challenges, Palestinians have demonstrated resilience and solidarity in observing Ramadan amidst adversity. By providing food boxes and setting up iftar dinners for the underprivileged, community organizations and humanitarian NGOs have been instrumental in helping vulnerable families. Furthermore, new methods like online fundraising campaigns and virtual Quran recitation sessions have made it possible for Palestinians to stay connected spiritually and assist one another throughout Ramadan.
Conclusion
A culture where people knew how to cherish the bonds, how to support humanity and how to celebrate their religious festivals. Where children used to smile and play with their parents. Now has a devastating view of destruction and bloodshed. From the rich cuisine to food shortage the nation of Palestine will have the hardest Ramadan this year.
This Ramadan, let’s unite and speak for the safety and wellbeing for our brothers, sisters and the innocent children in Gaza!
