"Ramadan in Morocco during COVID-19" by Malika Moudden

Ramadan is a holy month where Muslims around the world fast for 30 days (sometimes for 29 days, depending on the observation of the moon). This spiritual month of Ramadan is characterized around the world by worship, study of the Quran, prayers, fasting, giving charity, and helping the poor. We, as Muslims, try as much as possible to reflect on our lives, improve our behaviors, think about our daily habits and see to what extent they match standards of Islam. I personally feel very peaceful during this month because it’s the best chance that I have to be the best version of myself. I use it to reflect on my actions and past decisions, that are sometimes wrong. It is also a chance for me to set my goals, improve my bad habits, and ask for forgiveness.

In addition to devoting most of our time to worshiping God during Ramadan, this month is also very well known for making various types of food for “Iftar” (Iftar is the time when we break our fast at sundown time). Speaking of Morocco, the most popular dishes that are found at almost every table during Ramadan are “Chbakiya”, “Slou or Sfouf”, “Briwat”, “Harira”, dates, etc.

Due to COVID-19, Ramadan this year looked different in Morocco and around the world. We used to have family/friend gatherings during Iftar, which was so fun! Some people even used to go to the beach to have Iftar there. I am really very nostalgic about that! Time used to go very fast in such gatherings. Another thing that we literally missed this Ramadan is praying “Tarawih” and “Ichaa” in the mosque. This for me was the best part of Ramadan. This year, and also last year, we did not get the chance to do that because of the curfew that starts at 8 pm. It is true that we are still praying at home as a family, but this does not feel like being in the mosque where we listen to the amazing recitation of the Imam. Another thing that I believe some people missed this Ramadan (not me though 😊) is playing football at night. Guys used to play football after coming back from the mosque. Sometimes, they used to keep playing till “Sohoor” time (this is the time when we start our fast at the sunrise).

In general, what I can say about this year’s Ramadan is that it will be remembered forever! It is true that it is not easy for us to give up on some things that were very important to us but at the same time we learned a lesson which I would formulate as: Appreciate what you have and never take something for granted because anything can go in a blink of an eye.

Malika Moudden is a Program Assistant for Education Abroad in Morocco