Ramadan Start in Bahrain

When did the Ramadan Start in Bahrain start?

The first recorded date of Ramadan Start in Bahrain being celebrated on March 1 was in the year 1970.

About Ramadan Start in Bahrain Holiday

As the holy month of Ramadan draws near, Bahrain, the pearl of the Gulf, transforms into a hub of spirituality and cultural celebration. With its rich history and diverse population, this island nation offers a truly unique and immersive experience for travelers during the start of Ramadan.

From the bustling streets of Manama to the tranquil oasis of Riffa, Bahrain is alive with the energy of the holy month. As the sun sets and the call to prayer echoes through the air, the streets come alive with vibrant Ramadan decorations and the aroma of delicious traditional dishes fills the air. The streets are adorned with lanterns and colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere that is truly enchanting.

But Ramadan in Bahrain is not just about the festivities and delicious food. It is also a time for introspection and spiritual reflection. Witnessing the locals break their fast at sunset and coming together for the special prayers at the mosques is a humbling experience that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

Whether you are looking for a cultural immersion, spiritual enlightenment or simply a unique holiday destination, Bahrain during the start of Ramadan is a must-visit. So pack your bags and get ready to be immersed in the traditions and beauty of this special time in Bahrain.

The Start of Ramadan in Bahrain: A Celebration of Faith, Culture, and Traditions

The month of Ramadan is one of the most important and sacred times for Muslims around the world. It is believed to be the month when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, and thus, it is a time of reflection, spiritual renewal, and deepening one’s faith. The exact start of Ramadan varies each year, and in this article, we will explore how the holy month is celebrated in Bahrain.

Key Takeaways:

• Ramadan is a month-long celebration of faith and fasting for Muslims.
• The start of Ramadan varies each year based on the lunar calendar.
• The holy month is celebrated in Bahrain with traditional customs, food, and gatherings with family and friends.

History and Origin:

The origins of Ramadan can be traced back to the 7th century when the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran. In the lunar calendar, this event is believed to have happened during the ninth month, which is why Ramadan is observed during this time. The word ‘Ramadan’ itself comes from the Arabic root word ‘ramida’, meaning ‘to burn’, which is a reference to the self-discipline and purification of the body and mind that is required during this month.

Throughout history, the celebration of Ramadan has evolved and incorporated elements from different cultures and regions, making it a rich and diverse holiday with unique traditions. In Bahrain, a country with a Muslim majority, the celebration of Ramadan is embedded in the cultural fabric of its people.

Historical Context:

In Bahrain, Ramadan has been celebrated for centuries, and it holds significant historical importance for the country. Before the discovery of oil, the people of Bahrain relied mainly on pearl diving and fishing as their main sources of income. During Ramadan, when the sea conditions were favorable, it was a time when pearl divers would set out on their long journeys, offering prayers for safety and success. After the end of their journeys, the divers would return to their families, and the celebrations would commence.

Similarly, in the past, the month of Ramadan was also a time when merchants would come together to trade, strengthen business relationships, and give back to their communities through charitable acts. Even today, these traditions are still practiced, and the spirit of unity and generosity is palpable during this month.

Significance and Meaning:

For the people of Bahrain, Ramadan is more than just a religious obligation. It is a time to reconnect with one’s faith, family, and community. It is a month of spiritual reflection and personal growth, where one is encouraged to abstain from materialistic indulgences and focus on seeking forgiveness, practicing self-discipline, and strengthening one’s relationship with God.

Cultural Significance:

Bahrainis take great pride in their culture and traditions, and this is evident during the month of Ramadan. The streets and homes are adorned with traditional decorations, and the aroma of delicious food fills the air. Families and friends gather for iftar, the breaking of the fast at sunset, and suhoor, the pre-dawn meal. These gatherings are filled with laughter, love, and a sense of community. It is also common for Bahrainis to invite non-Muslim friends and neighbors to share in the festivities, showcasing the country’s inclusivity and hospitality.

Symbols and Decorations:

The crescent moon and star symbol is widely associated with Islam and is a prominent symbol during Ramadan. You will also find mosques and homes decorated with colorful lights, lanterns, and Islamic calligraphy to celebrate the holy month. One of the most iconic decorations during Ramadan is the traditional Bahraini swings, known as ‘layali al-qadr’, where people of all ages come together to swing under the night sky, enjoying the cooling breeze from the Arabian Gulf.

Traditions and Celebrations:

In addition to traditional iftar and suhoor gatherings, there are various other customs and celebrations associated with Ramadan in Bahrain. On the 15th night of the holy month, known as Laylatul Qadr, or the Night of Power, it is believed that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Special prayers and supplications are offered on this night, and it holds great spiritual significance for Muslims.

Another significant tradition is the giving of Zakat, a form of charity that is mandatory for all Muslims who meet a certain wealth threshold. It is considered a way to purify one’s wealth and help those in need, and during Ramadan, the spirit of giving is amplified.

Food and Cuisine:

Ramadan is also known for its delicious and unique cuisine. Traditional dishes such as thareed, a dish of bread, lamb, and vegetables, and muhammar, sweet rice with dates, are commonly served during iftar. Other popular dishes include mahyawa, a fish-based stew, and luqaimat, a deep-fried sweet dumpling. These dishes are a celebration of the country’s rich culinary heritage and are enjoyed by people of all religions and backgrounds.

For those wanting to try cooking a traditional Bahraini dish, here is a recipe for a popular iftar dish, chicken and rice.

Recipe: Bahraini Chicken and Rice

• Ingredients:
• 2 cups of basmati rice
• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons of ghee
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of cardamom
• 1 teaspoon of ginger
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of saffron threads
• 1/4 cup of raisins
• 1/4 cup of chopped almonds
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and then soak it in water for an hour.
2. Heat ghee in a large pot and add in the onions and chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned.
3. Add in the spices, 2 cups of water, and salt to taste. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Dissolve the saffron in 1/4 cup of water and add it to the pot along with the raisins and almonds.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Add in an additional 2 cups of water.
6. Cover the pot and let the rice cook on low heat for 20 minutes.
7. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve with the chicken and sauce.

Attire and Costumes:

During Ramadan, many Bahrainis choose to wear traditional clothing, such as the thobe for men, a long white robe, and the abaya for women, a loose-fitting black robe. These traditional garments are a symbol of pride in the country’s heritage and are worn with respect and reverence for the holy month. It is also common to see people wearing henna, a temporary dye, on their hands and feet during Ramadan.

Music and Songs:

Music and songs play an important role in cultural celebrations, and Ramadan is no different. Traditional songs, known as fasanat, are sung during gatherings and special prayers. These songs are usually accompanied by traditional instruments, such as the oud and the tabla. The religious significance of these songs celebrates the blessings and mercy of God during this holy month.

Geographical Spread:

The celebration of Ramadan is a global phenomenon, and it is celebrated with unique traditions and customs in various regions. In Bahrain, the holy month is observed and celebrated by Muslims of all backgrounds, making it a truly inclusive and diverse celebration. However, the country’s close-knit community and strong cultural identity make the celebrations in Bahrain particularly special.

As Bahrain is a small island country, most of the celebrations take place within homes and local communities, but there are also larger gatherings and events organized by religious centers and charities. During the month, there are also many events and activities taking place in public spaces, such as food fairs, traditional music performances, and charity events.

Modern-Day Observations:

As Bahrain continues to modernize, so too have the celebrations of Ramadan. While the spirit of the holiday remains the same, there have been modern adaptations, such as the use of social media and online platforms to organize events and connect with friends and family. These technological advancements have also made it easier for people to donate to charities and participate in community service events.

Interesting Facts or Trivia:

• In Bahrain, Ramadan is also known as the ‘moon of mercy’.
• During the month of Ramadan, the working hours in Bahrain are reduced by two hours.
• According to statistics, the consumption of dates during Ramadan increases by almost 10 times in Bahrain.
• The Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa Bridge, also known as the Hulhumale Bridge, was inaugurated during Ramadan in 2020.
• It is believed that on the last day of Ramadan, the gates of heaven are opened, and the gates of hell are closed.

Legends and Myths:

As with any holiday, there are also many legends and myths surrounding Ramadan. One such tale tells the story of a man who was unable to find water to break his fast, and he was on the brink of death. In his last moments, he came across a well, and a hand emerged from the water, offering him water to drink. This miracle is said to have happened on the 27th night of Ramadan, making it a special night of prayer and supplication.

Social and Economic Impact:

Ramadan has a significant impact on both the social and economic aspects of Bahrain. Socially, it is a time for people to come together, strengthen bonds, and give back to the community through charity work. Economically, it is a time when businesses see a surge in sales, particularly in the food and hospitality industry. With many families choosing to dine out during iftar, restaurants and cafes see a significant increase in customers, and special discounts and offers are common during this time.

Economic Impact:

The impact of Ramadan on the economy of Bahrain is significant. With the country’s diverse and vibrant culinary scene, many tourists visit Bahrain during the holy month to experience the unique traditions and dishes. This influx of visitors benefits the local economy, bringing in revenue for businesses and creating job opportunities. In addition, events and activities during Ramadan, such as charity drives and markets, also provide a boost to the economy while promoting the spirit of giving and community.

Environmental Aspect:

As Ramadan falls during the summer months, in Bahrain, there is a focus on making the celebrations more environmentally friendly. This includes minimizing food waste and using eco-friendly decorations and utensils. The use of lanterns and lights powered by sustainable energy sources is also encouraged. Furthermore, many mosques and community centers arrange activities and workshops to raise awareness about environmental conservation and sustainable practices during this month.

Tourist Guide:

Visa:

• Visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at the Bahrain International Airport or apply for an e-visa online before their trip.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Bahrain during Ramadan is during the last week, as this is when the festivities reach their peak.

Key Locations:

• Mosques: The Grand Mosque in Manama is the largest mosque in Bahrain and a popular destination for prayers and cultural events.
• Suq Al Qaisariya: This traditional market in Manama offers a glimpse into the old Bahraini way of life and is a bustling location during Ramadan.
• Layali Al-Qadr Swings: These traditional swings can be found in various locations, including Riffa Fort and Bu Maher Fort.

Must-See Events:

• Food fairs: These events showcase some of the most delicious and unique traditional dishes from Bahrain.
• Charity Drives: Many charitable organizations and mosques organize events to provide meals and necessities to those in need during Ramadan.

Activities:

• Henna Art: Many beauty salons and markets offer henna services during Ramadan.
• Visiting Mosques: Non-Muslims are encouraged to visit mosques during Ramadan to learn more about the significance of the holiday and experience the spirit of the holy month.

Dress Code:

• Visitors are advised to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees, when visiting public places during Ramadan.
• During iftar gatherings, it is respectful to wear traditional attire.

How to Say "Ramadan Start in Bahrain" In Different Languages?