Cariema Isaacs
Mar 112 min
“Fortitude is as a sweet cloud, wisdom rains from it, because it was in such a month of fortitude that the Quran arrived.” - Rumi
The sighting of the new crescent moon signifies the end of the month of Sha’ban (the 8th month of the Islamic lunar calendar) and the start of the holy month of Ramadaan. It is also during Ramadaan that the Quran was revealed. This is why most fasting Muslims use this month to read or recite the Quran, to understand it, to find tranquillity and calm, and ultimately to seek God’s mercy in absolution of our sins.
In preparation of fasting, Muslims all over the world stock up on dates. Our Prophet Muhammed (Peace be upon him) is quoted as saying: “When one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with dates; but if he/she cannot get any, then (he/she should break his fast) with water, for water is purifying”. Therefore most Muslim households have both dates and water served at their boeka or iftar tables.
I’ve been exceptionally blessed to have an abundance of dates available to me in Dubai. These plump and juicy ones pictured above are Medjool dates, perfect also for making smoothies and sticky toffee pudding. They are gloriously sweet and fleshy, and provides the instant energy that I crave after long hours of fasting.
I wish you a Ramadaan Kareem (blessed Ramadaan). To all our loves ones, friends and family scattered across the globe and even those who we have lost - may you find your peace in prayer, your salvation in God and your love for humanity in the kindness of sharing peace on Earth.