December 21, 2001

A delicious spread of Middle Eastern dishes, informational literature detailing the traditions of Islam and Muslim culture, and an enthusiastic crowd of MGHers celebrated Iftar, a feast breaking the daily Ramadan fast. Held Dec. 10 in the Bulfinch Trustees Room, the event--sponsored by MGH Patient Care Services--included representatives from MGH Chaplaincy and Administration.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observes the Prophet Mohammed's first revelation of the holy book Koran from Allah. To observe the sacred and solemn nature of this occasion, Muslims fast throughout Ramadan, which this year began Nov. 16. All able adult Muslims fast every day of Ramadan, from Fajr (dawn) to Maghrib (sunset). All "earthly pleasures," including food and drink, are abstained from during the fast, as are negative behaviors and actions. Ramadan is regarded as a means of strengthening one's faith and of encouraging self-purification and self-restraint.

The Festival of Fast-Breaking at the conclusion of Ramadan, also known as Eid ul Fitr, represents a personal victory of the spirit over physical appetites. Muslims offer special prayers of thanks in congregation, take time to visit with one another, give to charity and provide toys and games for children. As the jovial atmosphere of the MGH feast demonstrated, breaking fast at Ramadan is a time of joy and kindness. For more information about Ramadan and the celebration of Muslim culture at the MGH, send e-mail to fpathan@partners.org.