The article reflects on the deeply challenging experience of observing Ramadan in Gaza amidst ongoing conflict. While many around the world celebrate the holy month with joy, those in Gaza face overwhelming grief due to loss of families, homes, and community spaces including mosques. Memories of past Ramadans marred by war haunt the people, intensifying their current suffering. Meals during fasting are sparse and shared among many, lacking the usual warmth and togetherness associated with the month. The call to prayer, usually a sign of community bonding, is replaced by the terrifying sounds of warfare, profoundly altering their spiritual experience.
Ramadan last year was unimaginably worse. Hunger was everywhere. We fasted the entire day, only to break our fast with a can of hummus or beans shared between six people.
The month of togetherness became a month of separation and isolation. Ramadan was stripped of its joyous spirit.
Every mosque was destroyed. There were people who wanted to do the adhan, but they were afraid that the sound of their voices would bring air strikes.
We have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, mosques, but our faith remains as strong as ever.
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