Cape Town - As the holy month of Ramadaan commences today and Easter approaches, Muslims and Christians will embrace a spiritual significance and create family traditions which will last a lifetime.
Ramadaan is observed by Muslims across the world as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and charity.
For Zakiyyah Manuel of Kraaifontein, Ramadaan teaches Muslims the importance of forgiveness, gratefulness and kindness.
“Some of the important traditions of Ramadaan is breaking our fast together and ensuring our next door neighbours have something to eat. Ramadaan teaches me to give back even if one does not have much. One should also show compassion to the person begging for something to eat.
“To me family is most important as they are your foundation of learning,” she said.
Raziyaan Mack said: “Ramadaan is a holy month for us as Muslims. One of the reasons why we fast is to feel how people suffer who don’t have anything to eat. So when we break our fast at night, we are so happy and appreciate our food that we take for granted every day.
“It is also a time for us to pray, make peace with friends and family and to have more patience.”
Lameez Kamish, from Mitchells Plain, said: “Some of our important traditions during Ramadaan are to engage in charity, learn together as a family, be examples for our kids and set spiritual goals.”
Meanwhile, Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus three days after his death by crucifixion. For many Christian churches, Easter is a joyous end to the Lenten season of fasting and penitence. On Easter Sunday, many Christian families will go to church, have a big lunch with family and open Easter eggs.
The Ngobeni family, from Durbanville, spends Easter with family in Kimberley. “As a Christian, Easter is one of the most important celebrations on our calendar. Traditions are church on Easter Sunday and spending time with family.
“Eats include pickled fish and hot cross buns and of course Easter eggs. We would also share with those less fortunate during this time. Holidays like Easter and Christmas are when we need family the most,” said Latasha Ngobeni.
Tersia Harley said Easter was a way to commemorate the crucifixion.
“It's the time that we look at the path that Jesus walked to the cross to die for our sins. As a Christian, it is important that we celebrate it during the year but more especially during Easter time. We normally say prayers and have a family meal together on Easter,” she said.
A family favourite tradition in the Petersen house is an Easter egg hunt. Anthea Petersen said: “On Easter Sunday we go to church to praise and worship God. As Christians, we should not forget the true reason we celebrate Easter. While biting off that bunny's ear, remember to say thanks to Jesus Christ who gave his life to us.”
Weekend Argus