Ramadan in Gambia

images/stories/04/07/a.jpgEach year people in Gambia observe the holy month of Ramadan (the fasting month) and is the ninth month of the Muslim lunar year and is the fourth pillar of Islam.  It has double significance as this is the month that the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad and that night has been called the Night of Power - Layla-tul Qadr. Devout Gambians Muslims strive to make themselves pure, especially during this month, by ritual and spiritual observances.

During Ramadan, Muslims in The Gambia fast from sun-up to sun-down daily, not having anything to eat, drink, smoke or indulging in sexual relations. A special feast is prepared for the breaking of the fast, where everyone present is invited to partake of the dinner after the all-day fast.

It is considered rude-form to eat or drink during the day in public while others are abstaining from food or drink. If a Muslim keeps the fast during Ramadan, it means sins he committed the previous year are forgiven.

The month ends with special festivities on the Eid al-Fitr (Day of Feasting) called  Koriteh when families and friends truly rejoice for having completed the commandment of Allah by successful abstinence and by zikr (remembrance of Allah) at all times.