Ramadan in Kuwait: A journey of faith and tradition
Ramadan, the holy month during which the noble Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), falls on the ninth month of the Arabic or lunar calendar. Kuwait boasts several beautiful Ramadan traditions, including exchanging ideas at ghabgas and diwaniyas, distributing sweets to children in traditional attire for Girgiaan, and indulging in traditional Kuwaiti dishes for Iftar and Suhoor.
Realigning our priorities
Muslims eagerly anticipate the arrival of Ramadan as a time for family, faith, community, and reflection—elements of life that may sometimes be overlooked amidst our daily obligations. This sacred month offers a chance to realign our priorities and focus on what we hold dear as human beings, particularly emphasizing philanthropy and the numerous opportunities to volunteer and contribute to the community.
Short working hours
For decades, expatriates in Kuwait have cherished Ramadan. Working hours are shortened, creating a relaxed atmosphere where people dedicate more time to worship and experiment with various recipes to please the palates of both young and old family members and invited friends.
This year, there is a particularly joyful and relaxed ambiance as people can finally gather in large numbers without Covid-19 restrictions to celebrate Ramadan festivities. The Grand Mosque has reopened after a three-year hiatus, welcoming worshippers for the night prayers known as Qi’yam al-Layl, or the Night of Power, where prayer intensity heightens during the last ten days of Ramadan.
Warmth and hospitality
Families gather for iftar, inviting friends and colleagues, providing an opportunity to connect with many wonderful people who were previously strangers. Warmth and hospitality permeate Kuwait, with gatherings unique to the country offering an excellent opportunity to meet different generations of families and learn about local traditions. People share their past experiences, adding excitement and interest to the atmosphere.
Ramadan fosters a sense of brotherhood. Despite the challenges of the past two years due to the pandemic, Muslims worldwide have made efforts to come together virtually. However, the experience is much richer in person.
Embracing tradition in fine attire
Ramadan is a month when everyone enjoys dressing in their finest traditional or national attire. Women adore their stunning Ramadan kaftans, adorned with beautiful colors and designs. Shopping malls are bustling throughout the month of Ramadan, filled with enthusiastic late-night shoppers.
In Kuwait and around the world, Ramadan is a time for Muslims to reflect and connect. Each individual embarks on a personal journey during Ramadan, which may include prayer, fasting, charitable giving, and a focus on self-discipline, mindfulness, and their impact on society.
Families and friends gather for iftar and suhoor, often extending invitations to non-Muslim friends to foster understanding of Islam and the Ramadan spirit. Ramadan serves as an opportunity to bridge gaps between the ummah and broader society.
Deepening personal connections
Ramadan provides a unique opportunity to connect with others on a deeper, more personal level, as one is invited into their homes and meets their families. It is also a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and focusing on cultivating healthy habits and choices. The emphasis on giving and ensuring kindness in our actions resonates deeply with every family. Children become innovative and creative, such as making an advent Ramadan calendar that records daily acts of kindness, resulting in extra hugs and toys being cleared away without reminders from the parents.
Celebrating diverse traditions
Ramadan not only highlights common bonds but also celebrates the diverse traditions and practices within the Muslim community, showcasing a rich tapestry of pluralism.
As the blessed month of Ramadan draws to a close, people are turning their attention to planning the celebration of Eid Al Fitr.
