#Ramadan2016 in #Tripoli #Libya

By Nuha Dadesh

     Ramadan: a blessed, preeminent month, Muslims all over the world anticipate it enthusiastically, and is the incentive for bettering oneself to those participating in it. The holy month’s advent this year was on the sixth of June.

     The month of forgiveness, charity, worship, and supplication to the Almighty is uniquely celebrated among the diverse cultures that inhabit this planet. Nevertheless, shared customs and traditions are also evident.

     Substantial transformations have been plummeting on the capital city of Libya, Tripoli, ever since the 2011 Revolution. Primarily, prolonged power cuts have, nowadays, been the norm for the denizens of the city during Ramadan. “Coincidentally,” the power outages almost always coincide with Iftar time! In addition, an obnoxious sound of power generators is what Libyans listen to while ingesting their meals due to the desperate necessity for electricity, which can be absolutely infuriating!

     Considering Libya is a Muslim country, one would assume that Ramadan has an impact or interference on schools and universities, but it doesn’t. Students are obligated to carry on their normal activities, whether it’s attending classes and/or lectures or examinations. Although the experience is somewhat tedious, nothing can impede us indomitable Libyans.

     Customarily, candid camera prank shows and sitcoms air on Libyan Television. However, this year’s theme for most of the displays was violence. Perhaps, it’s the effect of the aftermath of the wars the country has vividly witnessed.

     In addition, the prices have once again skyrocketed. Thus, it isn’t uncommon to perceive beggars on the streets. And the current cash liquidity crisis flares up the Libyan struggle.

     Sun set, calls to prayer echoing from minarets, the hustle to get the food ready on time, family gatherings, Taraweeh Prayer, and late night snacks are a brief summary as to what Ramadan encompasses. Just like any visitor, Muslims greet it with their best behavior (for the most part). As Ramadan fades away, worshippers spend time reading the holy book, Quran, and praying at the mosque; generally intending to increase the amount of good deeds. Moreover, Eid preparations mark the end of the beloved month and include baking sweets and shopping for new outfits.