Ramadan Question

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here. Thank you for the answers. The last time I really thought about the Ramadan fast was about a decade ago. I lived in the northeast and worked with a lot of practicing Muslims at that point. In the northeast, in winter, it was a relatively short fast. I have a new appreciation for the discipline it takes to keep this tradition!

I was wondering about the north and south pole thing, but thought that might come across as a bit flip. But I do find it fascinating how religious observances adapt thoughtfully to changing times, as it usually involves a real exploration to the meaning behind the tradition.

It does take discipline, but I think the fact that everyone (or most people) do it together really makes it easier in some ways. It enhances the feeling of community. The dehydration and sleep disruptions are bad, but hey, most of us here are parents, and have grown accustomed to that! It's funny/disappointing how much food gets wasted in Ramadan. You get excited about all the things you're going to eat after sunset, but after a few bites, you're stuffed, and there's little opportunity to finish things up before they all spoil.

[Anonymous]

In the Scandinavian countries the Jewish Sabbath starts at 6 pm regardless of the position of the sun's position during the year. Which makes sense when in November the sun can set at 2 pm
Muslims normally go by the calendar of Turkey, but some new muslim migrants are taking this to the next level and fasting 20 hours per day.
This could be doable if you can sleep most of the day and be awake at night.