RIYADH: Steeped in history, the Farasan Islands have long embraced unique Ramadan traditions, welcoming the holy month with a blend of faith and maritime charm.
Farasan women used to prepare their homes by painting walls to highlight intricate engravings and plasterwork, while laying smooth pebbles on courtyards to add a maritime-inspired touch.
Farasan women used to prepare their homes by painting walls to highlight intricate engravings. (SPA)
Amnah Aqili spoke to the Saudi Press Agency about these preparations, recalling the renewal of wooden bed frames, the polishing of utensils, the preparation of spices, and the weaving of doum palm frond carpets.
Aqili noted that with the arrival of Ramadan, the air would be filled with the scent of mastic from clay water jugs and the sweet aroma of coffee from traditional pots. The exchange of Ramadan dishes among neighbors was another cherished tradition in the community.
FASTFACTS
鈥 The exchange of Ramadan dishes among neighbors is a cherished tradition in the Farasan community.
鈥 The community continues to honor the spirit of Ramadan through acts of worship, compassion, and the exchange of gifts, strengthening both spiritual and social bonds.
Abkar Al-Mashrai鈥檌 recalled a time over 70 years ago when the islanders would rely on news from Jazan to begin Ramadan.
Nightly recitations of the Qur鈥檃n by the glow of lanterns would echo through the alleys, and the muezzin鈥檚 melodic call would announce sahoor. Children and young men filled the evenings with traditional games, Al-Mashrai鈥檌 added.
The Farasan community continues to honor the spirit of Ramadan through acts of worship, compassion, and the exchange of gifts, strengthening both spiritual and social bonds.
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