Strengthening Family Bonds During Ramadan
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Salma Hossein
- . March 13, 2024
- . Update: March 13, 2024 6:02 pm
Family plays a central role in Saudi Arabian culture, and during the holy month of Ramadan, various activities are organized to strengthen familial bonds and celebrate the spiritual significance of the month.
In Saudi Arabia, families come together during Ramadan to engage in activities that are unique to this time of year. Traditionally, multiple generations gather under one roof for iftar, the meal to break the fast. However, recent changes have also seen people taking the opportunity to visit extended family and bring everyone together for iftar.
Hind Khalid, a Saudi woman from Riyadh, expresses her excitement about family gatherings during Ramadan, stating, “Family gatherings embody the spirit of the month of Ramadan.”
During these gatherings, families often plan activities focused on giving back to the community. Some organize donation drives to support the less fortunate or local charities. Reciting the Quran and storytelling sessions, especially in the presence of older family members, are also cherished moments that foster emotional connections and reinforce the importance of family relationships.
Ramadan serves as a time for people to reconnect with loved ones they may not have seen for a while due to work or other commitments. Sharing the joy of breaking the fast and expressing gratitude for blessings received are simple acts that bring families closer. Meaningful conversations and sharing experiences of worship promote empathy and understanding among family members. Many families participate in Tarawih night prayers together or visit their neighborhood mosque, nurturing a sense of spirituality and unity.
Reciting the Quran and storytelling sessions also play an essential role in Ramadan family traditions. These activities provide an opportunity for older family members to pass on their wisdom and knowledge to younger generations, strengthening intergenerational ties and preserving cultural and family heritage.
Hind Khalid shares some of her family’s traditions, including religious games and competitions with motivating rewards.
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For example, there may be a prize for the person who recites the entire Quran during the holy month or for active participation in cooking. Hanane Hammad, another Saudi woman, mentions playing card games or online group games and organizing Quran memorization competitions for children as part of their family traditions.
Charitable activities are highly favored during Ramadan, with families dedicating a day to gather and collect donations for the less fortunate or support local charities. Some families also prepare and distribute meals to neighbors and those in need. These acts of kindness and generosity exemplify compassion within the community and serve as role models for younger generations.
Ramadan is also a time to savor traditional Saudi dishes such as jareesh, saleeg, and tharid with the family. Cooking and enjoying these traditional meals together not only strengthen family and community ties but also celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the Kingdom.