I start my column with the headlines from the past three years about the clashes between the Israeli forces and the Palestinians at the holy mosque of Masjid Al-Aqsa during the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims.
Ramadan begins today for those of us in America, and we will observe our first sawm (fast). Muslims around the world will be seeking spiritual merit or reward by fasting, praying, doing good deeds and asking for repentance.
The pandemic challenged us to look into different ways to practice and participate in Ramadan from home. We created new traditions and some of these traditions are there to stay.
During the month of Ramadan, for 30 days, Muslims who choose to fast will neither eat nor drink during daylight hours. At night, when they break their fast, many will only choose foods that are considered permissible under Islamic law.
I immediately understood how Muslim girls when brought up in society with such level of modesty consider it normal, while it was strange for me in the beginning.