The markets of Damascus during the Iftar breakfast, II
By Denman
16 Sep 2009
Ramadan time once again, meaning breakfast time in Syria comes at 7.15pm after the full day of fasting.
Ramadan started on the 22nd of August. In the heat of the scorching sun millions of people put nothing past their lips until the day is done. It's a time of sustaining, a time of families, a time of thought and reflection.
Whilst I was in Damascus I spoke to many people about the reasons for fasting, it seems that it's no longer about religion as such, but more about culture and being at one, being part of something, something very unique to their way of life, to their history and to their family.
I still ponder at the whole fasting issue, I still struggle to really identify with it. I still have nothing to compare it to in my life. But I also still admire the strength of the people and the sheer determination of fasting.
The peace on the streets, the atmosphere in the air is calming to the sole. It's a beautiful time that I will forever continue to try to understand, yet I will only ever be an outsider looking in and never feel it from the inside.
These images were taken just before the canon boomed for the break of Iftar. Just as everyone has brought their food and are getting ready to feast.
I hope you can enjoy the images.
1 response
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Yassine Hakimi said (12 Apr 2010):
Great essay ! It captures well the atmosphere , moments before the lftar (here in Tunisia we call it "chakkan elfatr).
What you said about the cultural and traditional aspect of fasting gaining an importance over the religious side is to some extent true. Still, Ramadan is a month in which religion takes a great importance in the daily lives of the people , an importance that may be unnoticeable in the rest of the year .
