Information about Ramadan in Egypt

The Arabic Month of Ramadan

The term Ramadan is derived from the Arabic roots ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which mean "the burning heat" and "drought." This month holds great importance as it signifies the revelation of the Qur'an, which serves as a guiding light for humanity and provides clear moral standards that differentiate right from wrong.

Ramadan is acknowledged as the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a time devoted to fasting, blessings, and prayers, commemorating the first verses of the Holy Qur'an that were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the Holy Spirit, Gabriel. Throughout this month, Muslims refrain from consuming food and drink during daylight hours, a practice designed to cultivate empathy for those who are less fortunate.

Although the times may share similarities, they are unique in the virtues and guidance they provide. The Almighty has blessed the month of Ramadan with numerous benefits, rendering it a sacred period that encourages individuals to perform good deeds

When planning your journey to Egypt during the month of Ramadan, it is essential to acknowledge that this time is characterized by the divine revelation of the Holy Qur’an. This revered scripture was bestowed to purify souls and enrich intellects with profound wisdom. The Qur’an was revealed to the lowest heaven in a singular event, initiating its gradual descent, with further verses being disclosed in accordance with divine wisdom. A key element of Ramadan is the requirement for Muslims to observe fasting from dawn until sunset, a practice that holds deep significance for individuals, as it aims to enhance their moral character, cleanse their hearts, and promote personal development.

A prominent feature of the Ramadan observance in Egypt is the Night of Power, a significant occasion when the Holy Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in the year 610 AD. This momentous event occurred while he was in the Cave of Hira, where the angel Gabriel, peace be upon him, delivered the first verse: "Read in the name of your Lord who created." The essence of the Holy Qur’an was revealed on this pivotal night, originating from the preserved tablet.

The name of this month is derived from the term "Ramadan," which is associated with the notion of heightened heat. The origin of the word indicates that Ramadan signifies a rise in temperature, symbolizing a period when the heat was particularly severe. Traditionally, the names of the months were taken from the language of earlier civilizations, gradually evolving to reflect seasonal attributes. Consequently, Ramadan has come to denote a time characterized by intense warmth.

In Egypt, Ramadan is marked by a variety of customs and rituals. Throughout this month, Muslims engage in fasting, a compulsory act of worship and one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam, crucial for the integrity of the faith. This fasting period is acknowledged universally, although the specific timings may differ across various regions. A notable advantage of fasting is its capacity to cleanse the soul and enhance one's connection with God Almighty. During this holy month, it is believed that the gates of Hell are shut, while the avenues of mercy and forgiveness are opened for Muslims.

The month referred to as "Ramadan" derives its name from etymological origins linked to the notion of increased heat. This term implies a rise in temperature, signifying a period characterized by particularly intense warmth. Historically, the names of the months were influenced by the prevailing language, evolving to reflect the seasonal attributes. As a result, Ramadan became synonymous with a time of significant heat.

In Egypt, the observance of Ramadan is distinguished by a variety of customs and practices. During this month, Muslims partake in fasting, which is a mandatory act of worship and one of the five essential pillars of Islam, crucial for the integrity of the faith. This practice is acknowledged worldwide, although the specific timing may vary by region. Fasting in Ramadan is believed to cleanse the soul and strengthen one's relationship with God Almighty. Additionally, it is understood that during this sacred month, the gates of Hell are shut, while the avenues of mercy and forgiveness are opened to the devout.

Exemptions from fasting are granted in specific situations, including travel, menstruation, serious illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. However, many Muslims facing health challenges opt to fast in order to meet their spiritual commitments, even though such actions are not recommended by hadith. Those who cannot fast are obligated to make up for the missed days at a later date.

Suhur is the pre-dawn meal that Muslims consume before beginning their fast (sawm), whether during or outside the month of Ramadan. This meal is taken prior to the fajr prayer. Suhur is analogous to iftar, the evening meal during Ramadan, and it replaces the typical three meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, although in some cultures, dinner may still be enjoyed after iftar later in the evening.

As the last meal eaten by Muslims before fasting from dawn until sunset during Ramadan, Suhur is regarded in Islamic tradition as a source of blessings, aiding individuals in alleviating irritability or fatigue that may result from fasting. A hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari states that Anas ibn Malik reported, "The Prophet said, 'partake in suhoor, for indeed there is a blessing in it.'"

At sunset, families break their fast with a meal, traditionally starting with dates and water, often accompanied by milk and various beverages, with some preferring fresh juices such as orange, mango, or melon. After the Maghrib prayer, individuals typically enjoy dishes like Molokhia, soup, mixed vegetables, pasta with béchamel, and the table is often set with green salad or yogurt salad with cucumbers, while the main course frequently includes grilled chicken or a variety of grilled meats such as kebab and kofta.

After the Iftar meal, it is a common practice to indulge in a variety of sweets, with the most popular being Konafa, Qatif, Baklawa, Mohalabiya, and Umm Ali. The assortment of these desserts can vary greatly from one household to another, showcasing the individual tastes of each family. A significant tradition in Egypt features individuals referred to as "magicians," who roam neighborhoods and homes to rouse residents for suhoor with their unique call: "God." This custom, which dates back to the third century AH, has spread to many Arab countries. However, its frequency has declined due to the introduction of modern alarm clocks, resulting in its persistence mainly in rural areas and small villages.