I am very excited to learn about Ramadan and experience this holy month in a Muslim country. Muslims practice fasting to remember people who are less fortunate and may not have food or water during the day. This holy month relates to one of the five pillars of Islam. While I am not Muslim, I will try to fast and abstain from food or water for a day with my host family.
I learned almost everyone in Morocco celebrates Ramadan. My host family prepared for Ramadan by cleaning their home. They also prepared food for when they break their fast after sunset on the first full day which is Tuesday, May 7. My host family invited me to help them prepare almond cookies. They take almonds and sugar and mix them together in a grinder. I was not there for the entire process, but it was nice to help. I also learned during the beginning of Ramadan you greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem” which loosely translates to have a “blessed Ramadan”.
Moroccans have this tradition because the official religion in the country is Islam. I am not Muslim and do not practice Islam, but I wanted to be a part of this tradition and celebrate with those around me. During Ramadan, people go to the Mosque and pray. I will not be participating in this because I am not Muslim and cannot enter the Mosque.
