Ramadan

The other night I attended an informational session on Ramadan and Islam at a place called the Alternative Information Center in Beit Sahour. The session was led by an Imam, an Islamic leader, and he gave us some interesting information about this holy month. Ramadan, one of the 5 Pillars of Islam, is a month of fasting, and the month is determined by the lunar calender. One of the reasons why this month is so important is because the Quran revealed Muhammad during this month. During Ramadan, Muslims wake up and eat ar 4 AM before the sun rises, and then they abstain from having anything enter their mouth until the sun sets that evening. This means they cannot eat, drink, chew gum, smoke, etc. (a few Muslims we have talked to say that refraining from smoking and drinking coffee is the hardest part!) Through fasting, Muslims reach a level where angels are.
It was interesting to hear about the dual component of Ramadan: physical and spiritual. Muslims believe that the body becomes healthier through fasting. Additionally, the Imam said that if the stomach is full, the mind sleeps and the wisdom is lost. Therefore, since the stomach is not full, the body does not become too lazy for prayer. Ramadan is also spiritual, as Muslims believe that God will let people who fast and observe Ramadan enter heaven through a particular gate.
Another neat component on Ramadan is the consciousness of thought and behavior. During Ramadan, Muslims are supposed to be intentional about behaving truthfully, honestly, and with love for one another. This includes setting aside $3 for each family member to give as a donation to the poor. During Ramadan, Muslims are also supposed to make it a point to visit relatives, neighbors, and friends, so the community aspect is very important.
It has been fascinating to be here during Ramadan. While it restricts us from doing certain things, such as eating or drinking outside during the day, everything here is so full of life, especially after "breakfast" (when they break the fast). Next week is Eid (the end of Ramadan), so the schools are off from Tuesday-Friday. I think we will do a little traveling during this time, so I am excited about that!