Ahlan wa Sahlan Ramadhan (Welcome Ramadan)

The holy month of Ramadan started yesterday. For Muslims, this means no food, drink, smoking, or physical relations from dusk until dawn for a whole month. It was revealed in the following verse from the Qur'an:

Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an as a guide to mankind also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong). So everyone of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.
2:185

Not everyone here fasts, but there is no eating or drinking in public until after the evening call to prayer. During the day, many Muslims spend time reading and reciting as much of the Qur'an as possible. In the evening, there are large family dinners as people break the fast for the day.

While I am in Palestine, I am observing Ramadan as well. I feel that it's important act in solidarity with the people here, and is also something I've wanted to try in the past. It feels very special to be participating in such a powerful act, especially with so many others here and aroudn the world doing so as well. The most challenging point may be English class today, because we hold it at 4, which is very close to the evening call to prayer. It will be a very hungry class.

I have never actually fasted before, but myself and the other volunteers woke up at 4 for Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal. This morning I had a pita with hummus, some cheese, and eggs with water and orange juice. Hopefully I'll feel okay today, if not I'll have to change it up tomorrow.