With the majority of the people being Muslim, it goes without question that Ramadhan will give a huge change of pace in Indonesia. You can expect the same from Jakarta. As Ramadhan Islam's holy month or the fast month is there, you should be aware of some cultural aspects and celebrations as part of religious beliefs or appreciation. What to do and consider? Check the following details
Some Cultural Exploration To Know
- The Month Of Fasting
Ramadhan is a holy month of Islam, which is fall in the last month of the Muslim lunar year. During this month, all Muslims will do a total fast. It is a practice to abstain from food, drink, or physical needs such as sex or smoking during daylight. People see it as a practice of self-discipline, and emotion, and purify the soul and focus on god.
Of course, there are some exceptions, such as the sick, travelers, breastfeeding women, and children, or women having their period. Despite the exception, Muslims take the month as a chance to get closer to family, teach children for fasting, and learn to live slows down. And that eventually change the pace of Jakarta during Ramadan.
- Sahur or Predawn meal
Predawn meal is the start of the fast. In Indonesia with a majority Muslim population, there is a unique culture for the occasion. At approximately around 2 a.m., people or kids will start beating drums, singing, or declaring announcements to wake up people for Sahur. This is where people ate their share of predawn meal before sunrise.
- The Special Vibe Of Ramadhan
As daylight comes, people do their routine as usual. Adults get to work, kids go to school, and Jakarta got busy as usual. But the touch of Ramadan changes the pace a bit, as many activities slow down. People are found relaxing and enjoying fasting without worry. During the month, you can hear prayers at all times from day to night adding a calming and charitable atmosphere.
- Pop-Up Market For Exciting Iftar
For sure, the vibe goes 180ᵒ as the time closer to sunset. The sunset treat or iftar is the awaited moment for Muslims. During Maghrib or dusk prayer, Muslims are allowed to eat and break their fast. For that moment, the street of Jakarta can turn into a crowded place with pop-up markets selling various tasty iftar. From sugary and salty, to mouthwatering menus, you can enjoy and join the joy of iftar.
- The Merry Of Ramadhan
As Muslim focus on their religious practice, fasting, praying, and slowing down, Ramadhan also brings joy to everyone. Many parts of Jakarta during Ramadan will start to move as Muslims celebrate the holy month. Market, supermarket, hotels, travel, and almost everything increased in activities. All share joy as many other places also joins the special month with various discounts, offers, and services.
Ramadhan means big for Muslims in Indonesia. it can affect various things from small cultural aspects and routines for people. As a country with various beliefs, people are bound to appreciate each other culture and activities. That is why, be sure you know what to expect. Ramadhan is a blessing and holy month for Muslims and people who appreciate it.
