Saturday, September 12, 2009

At Dusk. NOT your average Political BBq

It wasn't just any BBq, but one that left me emotionally affected. Picture this - a slow procession of men moving up the hill to waiting prayer carpets as the 'call for prayer' filtered through the still night air in quiet whisper. Men from the Muslim Society of Guelph prayed together as others listened with reverence. It was extremely moving . I hesitated publishing these photos because they're hazy, but if you can set that aside I hope you'll be able to feel the moment. It wasn't only a Liberal Party barbeque, but also an extraordinary cultural sharing. Those who remained until dusk witnessed the breaking of the Muslims day of fast, Ramadan. The last photograph is a favorite of mine appropriately named "Prayer In Motion"









* I was given permission to capture these photos. With respect & thanks.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is the Islamic month of fasting, in which participating Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and indulging in anything that is in excess or ill-natured; from dawn until sunset. Fasting is meant to teach the Muslim patience, modesty and spirituality- a time for Muslims to fast for the sake of Allah, and to offer more prayer than usual. During Ramaḍan, Muslims ask forgiveness for past sins, pray for guidance and help in refraining from everyday evils, and try to purify themselves through self-restraint and good deeds. As compared to solar calendar, the dates of Ramadan vary, moving forward about ten days each year as it is a moving festival depending on the moon. From HERE

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