Tabuk's Elderly Recall Rich Ramadan Traditions And Hardships Of Yesteryears

In a recent series of interviews conducted by the Saudi Press Agency, elderly residents of the Tabuk Region shared their nostalgic memories of Ramadan, reflecting on the unique ways they celebrated the holy month in their youth. These conversations revealed not only the spiritual richness that characterised Ramadan but also the communal spirit and challenges faced during this period.

Manzel Al-Anzi, one of the interviewees, reminisced about the anticipation and joy that marked the arrival of Ramadan. "Despite difficult times," Al-Anzi noted, "Ramadan was always greeted with joy and enthusiasm. It held a unique spiritual quality, setting it apart from other months." He highlighted how preparations for Ramadan began as soon as news of its arrival was heard, much like today. However, he pointed out a stark difference in living conditions, mentioning that back then, people had to make do with limited food variety and lived in mobile dwellings like tents and huts. Despite facing intense thirst, hunger, and harsh weather conditions, fasting was observed with dedication.

Fahad Al-Atawi shared similar sentiments about life during Ramadan in the Tabuk desert. "Life was simple, with shared tents and communal meals," Al-Atawi said. He described how tribes would come together for iftar, taking turns to host the meal. Contributions were made by everyone according to their means. The "Ramadan table" was modest, often featuring dates, milk, bread, and meat when it was available. A special mention was made of "murayda", a sweet drink prepared from soaked dates, which was particularly enjoyed during this time.

The interviews shed light on a time when the spirit of community and shared responsibility played a central role in the observance of Ramadan. Despite the scarcity of resources and challenging living conditions, the holy month was a period of joy, spiritual reflection, and communal harmony. These stories from the past serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring significance of Ramadan and its ability to bring people together.

With inputs from SPA