Here comes the month of Ramadhan again and as usual, we can see larger congregation at mosques and suraus during all prayers’ time. Be it in Malaysia or here in Damascus, where I am now! This is my second time experiencing the month of Ramadhan in Damascus, Syria. There are similarities when it comes to preparation to welcome the first day of Ramadhan – everybody is busy doing their last minute shopping and marketing. But one interesting story that I wish to share with others is the Ramadhan tradition that is still being practiced in Syria and other neighboring countries such as Lebanon and Egypt. It might still be practiced in Malaysia but it could be in far out villagers and no longer in the cities.
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What I am referring to is the so-called "Musaharati" or the term used to describe the person that fill the silence of the nights with drum beats and religious chants in the alleys of residential areas to wake up the residents for the sahor. His work is considered complete for the day just before the call of the Subuh prayers denoting the beginning of the fast for the day. This is a voluntary job, and residents of each neighborhood reward whoever takes it upon himself at the end of every Ramadan. Musaharati are usually retired men who get up two hours before everyone else to walk the dark city streets.
The other practiced that is still being uphold by people in Damascus ( I was made to understand) is the one cannon shot at sunset telling Muslims that the day’s fast is finished and authorizing them to start eating. Was told that some people, would wait anxiously to hear the cannon shot, and refuse to eat until hearing it, although the announcement is made simultaneously on television and at mosques throughout the Syrian capital.
Notwithstanding what we currently enjoyed during this month of barakah, Ramadhan,always remember to offer our prayers to those less fortunate throughout the world that continue to suffer various hardship and difficulties.
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