Before entering the mosque, Jenny and I covered our heads with a hijab as a sign of respect. Unlike some predominately Muslim countries, it is not required for women to cover their heads, wear burkha, or dress in a certain way. However, many women in Jordan choose to dress conservatively.

Upon entering the main prayer hall of the mosque, I saw several men kneeling, quietly praying toward Mecca. Prayer is a very import component of Islam and is one of the Five Pillars. Very simply put, the Five Pillars of Islam are derived from the religious book, the Qur’an. They outline five actions, or laws, may Muslims observe.

For me, one the most interesting aspects of Islam is hearing the call to prayer. Sung at dawn, mid-day, mid-afternoon, just after sunset, and at night-fall, the chant reminds all Muslims that it is time to pray. Hearing the beautifully sung Arabic prayers echo throughout Amman is a very powerful experience for me each time I hear it. It reminds me of the critical importance of religion in the Middle East in a way that is very different that what we know in America.

During this trip, as a way to help me better understand Islam, I’m fasting for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Generally speaking, the fast is a time to abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset; but, it ’s also a time to abstain from any ugly behavior that may have started to creep into your life, such as gossip and lying. Can you imaging how hard it is to not gossip for a whole month?

Observing Ramadan has definitely been an enlightening experience for me. It has helped me become better acquainted with a often misunderstood and misrepresented religion.

About my fast: I have slightly modified my fast for Ramadan due to our busy schedule by allowing myself to drink water during the day. For this reason, the sunset call to prayer has been important to me as it signifies that it’s okay to eat. This evening call to prayer has become my best pal as I pace the floor for the last 10 minutes of sunlight each day!

Break your fast: Iftar buffet.

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