By Mahdy Al Khayari
One of the days during Ramadan, just a few minutes before sunset, I went out for a stroll in the neighbourhood when I saw some children carrying plates of food to their neighbours. That sent me back to the time, when I, as a child, did the same thing – carrying plates of food from my home to our neighbours. And our neighbour’s children would follow suit. This act, during Ramadan, has its roots in tradition, and is a heart-warming gesture of sharing blessings, and strengthening bonds. Food is seen as a blessing to be shared, especially when breaking the fast.
The Holy Month is more than just fasting – it is a mix of culture, value, and heritage and it is a season of goodness that connects hearts, bringing people together.
One connected home
In my home, the same dishes return every Ramadan, with only a few side plates varying from day to day. Come sunset and the house fills up with an endearing buzz. Everyone gathering around, laughing, sharing and telling stories; bowls of different food are passed around and the evening fills up with a sense of sharing as well as belonging.
The impact of this daily gathering in Ramadan is a renewal of relationships and bonds with others. After being busy with life’s various demands, Ramadan succeeds in bringing us together around one table. This strengthens family ties and allows us to talk and enjoy moments with each other. These moments also break barriers between neighbours through the exchange of dishes, conversations and smiles, turning the entire neighbourhood into one connected home.
Value of sharing
These moments instil contentment and compassion upon our souls. They remind us about the value of sharing and empathy, especially when seeing children learning the value of giving as they happily distribute plates of food among neighbours.
A habit that helps bonding
After we finish iftar and praying, a sense of peace and a feeling of relaxation permeates the house. This is the time when everyone sits together to talk.
These moments are what truly strengthen our bonds. It is not just about sharing food; it is also about doing things together, like helping in clearing the place after the iftar and then making coffee or tea together. This simple daily habit creates a sense of belonging within the family and the neighbourhood, bringing a feeling of contentment and peace after a long day. The beauty of these moments are in their simplicity, and reminding us that Ramadan is a chance to grow closer and renew our relationships with those we love in a calm and comfortable ambience.
Prophet’s teachings
This Ramadan culture originates from our religious values that urge us toward affection and compassion. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) teaches us about the importance of giving, especially during Ramadan, as he encourages us to feed people who are fasting and to take care of our neighbours. These teachings make people want to share their food with others, not just to satisfy hunger, but to strengthen bonds.
Ramadan – a practical school
Because of these values, Ramadan has turned into a practical school for children and adults alike. It starts with a simple plate sent from one neighbour to another, and the connection slowly grows until the family gathers around one table. The goal of these habits is not the food only, but spreading love and peace in the neighbourhood and the home. This is what makes the Muslim community feel like one body, where everyone feel about others and seeks to make them happy in any way they can.
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