Ramadan is one of the five requirements (or pillars) of Islam. During each of its 30 days, Muslims are obligated to fast from dawn until sunset. During this time they are supposed to abstain from food, drinking liquids, smoking, and sexual relations.
In Senegal, right before the streets become strangely empty as everyone breaks the fast, you may be handed water and dates as you pass by. Traditionally, families break the fast with a cup of coffee, dried date fruits, and bread. Later they will share a full-course meal and may stay up late into the night. They arise early to have breakfast well before the sun makes its appearance.
Many Senegalese become more serious about religion during this time, attending the evening prayer services and doing the other ritual prayers. Some even read the entire Quran (about a tenth the length of the Bible). This sincere seeking makes it a strategic time for us to pray for them.
