Families in Tunisia agree that this Ramadan, Islam’s holy month of fasting, will be different across the world. Families everywhere will be forced to change generations-old habits of social gatherings during this month in light of COVID-19 restrictions worldwide.
Tunisian families, during Ramadan, were used to sharing delicious sweets with relatives and holding get-togethers to bring family members together.
More than one Tunisian family reported that they will spend Ramadan differently this year, but that the month of fasting will maintain its great spiritual importance despite the exceptional health and security conditions.
On the eve of Ramadan, movement in markets and stores increased but with the masses respecting the rules of social distancing as advised by authorities.
Touring a number of markets, Asharq Al-Awsat noted that families were keen on helping the poor with many filling up food aid baskets for the poor. Families are socially aware that many Tunisians are living through hard times given the economic slowdown caused by the coronavirus shutdown.
As for Ramadan traditions, a local, Shadleah al-Murji, confirmed that she will be reciting the Quran with a group. Each member is responsible for reciting one Quranic section per day from their own home.
Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Quran, which comprises 30 sections, over the 30 days of Ramadan. Some Muslims incorporate a recitation of one section into each of the 30 tarawih nighttime prayers observed during the month.
As for the tarawih prayers, al-Murji said that they will be observed by families from home. She said that it is an opportunity to bring family members closer together under quarantine.
A number of residents of neighborhoods near the capital stressed the need for exercise during the night hours, hoping authorities would push the curfew to start at 11 pm to allow them to take walks to burn off some of their iftar meals.
