Ramadan in Iraq

Sihaam Azeez longs for her beloved Baghdad in Ramadhaan, where she used to be awakened by the sound of a man walking the streets, shouting "Suhoor, Suhoor!" in effort to wake up his fellow believers to have the pre-dawn meal. Neighborhood children also come knocking on doors with their Faanoos (lantern)—a personal wake-up call in exchange for some sweets.

"Just before Iftaar time, after a long day of fasting, all the kids gather to wait for the traditional cannon to sound. This signals that it is Maghrib time (sunset) and we can break our fast," says Mrs. Azeez.

In the minutes leading up to Athaan, the smell of barbecue wafts through the city, as most people cook their kebabs out on the grill. Those who are breaking their fast eat some dates and yogurt first, then after offering the prayer in the mosque, return for soup, kebabs, etc. Residents send whatever food they have made to their neighbors to share, so no one goes hungry in Ramadhaan. The leftovers are kept for the next suhoor.

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