Information about Ramadan in Egypt

The Arabic Month of Ramadan

The term Ramadan originates from the Arabic roots ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which translate to "the burning heat" and "drought." This month is significant as it marks the revelation of the Qur'an, serving as a source of guidance for humanity and providing clear evidence of moral standards distinguishing right from wrong.

Ramadan is recognized as the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a period dedicated to fasting, blessings, and prayers, commemorating the initial verses of the Holy Qur'an revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by the Holy Spirit, Gabriel. During this month, Muslims abstain from food and drink during daylight hours, a practice intended to foster empathy for the less fortunate.

While the times themselves may be similar, they are distinct in the virtues and guidance they offer. The Almighty has endowed the blessed month of Ramadan with numerous advantages, making it a sacred time that inspires individuals to engage in good deeds

When organizing your travels to Egypt during the month of Ramadan, it is important to recognize that this period is marked by the divine revelation of the Holy Qur’an. This sacred text was sent down to purify hearts and enrich minds with wisdom. The Qur’an was revealed to the lowest heaven in a single instance, marking the commencement of its descent, with subsequent verses being disclosed in accordance with divine wisdom. A significant aspect of Ramadan is the obligation for Muslims to fast during daylight hours, a practice that holds profound significance for individuals, as it serves to refine their morals, cleanse their hearts, and foster personal growth.

A notable highlight of the Ramadan celebration in Egypt is the occurrence of the Night of Power, a momentous night when the Holy Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in the year 610 AD. This revelation took place while he was in the Cave of Hira, where the angel Gabriel, peace be upon him, conveyed the first verse: "Read in the name of your Lord who created." The entirety of the Holy Qur’an was revealed in its essence on this significant night, originating from the preserved tablet.

The designation of this month stems from the term "Ramadan," which is rooted in the concept of heat intensity. The etymology suggests that Ramadan signifies an increase in temperature, reflecting a time when the heat was particularly intense. Historically, the names of the months were derived from the language prevalent in earlier times, and they began to adopt names that corresponded to seasonal characteristics. Thus, Ramadan came to represent a period marked by extreme heat.

In Egypt, Ramadan is characterized by various traditions and practices. During this month, Muslims observe fasting, which is a mandatory act of worship and one of the five pillars of Islam, essential for the validity of the faith. This fasting period is universally recognized, although the specific timing may vary across different regions. One of the significant benefits of fasting is its ability to purify the soul and foster a closer relationship with God Almighty. During this sacred month, it is believed that the gates of Hell are closed, while the doors of mercy and forgiveness are opened for Muslims.

The month is named "Ramadan" due to its etymological roots, which relate to the concept of heightened heat. The term suggests an increase in temperature, indicating a time when the heat was particularly severe. In ancient times, the names of the months were derived from the dominant language, and they began to adopt names that reflected the characteristics of the seasons. Consequently, Ramadan became associated with a period of intense heat.

In Egypt, the observance of Ramadan is marked by various customs and rituals. Muslims engage in fasting during this month, which is a compulsory act of worship and one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam, essential for the faith's validity. This practice is recognized globally, although the specific timing may differ across locations. Fasting during Ramadan is believed to purify the soul and enhance one's connection with God Almighty. It is also understood that during this holy month, the gates of Hell are closed, while the doors of mercy and forgiveness are opened to the faithful.

Exemptions from fasting include circumstances such as travel, menstruation, severe illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Nevertheless, numerous Muslims with health issues choose to observe fasting to fulfill their spiritual obligations, despite the fact that such practices are not advised by hadith. Those who are unable to fast are required to compensate for the missed days at a later time.

Suhur refers to the pre-dawn meal consumed by Muslims before the commencement of fasting (sawm), either during or outside the Islamic month of Ramadan. This meal is taken prior to the fajr prayer. Suhur serves as a counterpart to iftar, the evening meal during Ramadan, replacing the conventional three meals of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, although in certain regions, dinner may also be enjoyed after iftar later in the evening.

As the final meal consumed by Muslims before fasting from dawn until sunset during Ramadan, Suhur is considered by Islamic traditions to be a source of blessings, helping individuals to mitigate the irritability or fatigue that may arise from fasting. A hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari recounts that Anas ibn Malik reported, "The Prophet said, 'partake in suhoor, for indeed there is a blessing in it.'"

At sunset, families conclude their fast with breakfast, traditionally beginning the meal by breaking their fast with dates and water, often accompanied by milk, and various beverages, with some preferring fresh juices such as orange, mango, or melon. Following the Maghrib prayer, individuals typically enjoy dishes such as Molokhia, soup, mixed vegetables, pasta with béchamel, and the table is adorned with green salad or yogurt salad with cucumbers, stuffed vine leaves, while the main course often features grilled chicken or assorted grilled meats like kebab and kofta.

Following the Iftar meal, it is customary to enjoy a variety of sweets, with the most renowned being Konafa, Qatif, Baklawa, Mohalabiya, and Umm Ali. The selection of these desserts can differ significantly from one household to another, reflecting the unique preferences of each family. A notable tradition in Egypt involves the presence of individuals known as "magicians," who traverse neighborhoods and homes to awaken residents for suhoor with their distinctive call: "God." This practice, which originated in the third century AH, has since spread to numerous Arab nations. However, its prevalence has diminished due to the advent of modern alarm devices, leading to its continued existence primarily in rural areas and modest villages.