Yoav Stern; 18/9/08
“Instead of it being a month of abstinence, asceticism and breaking the fast with dates, it has turned into a month of cooking, fat paunches and frying. The month of Ramadan is the month of sycophantism, hypocrisy and lies, the month of squandering and appetite, a month of slavery for women.” These words were written around a month ago by Ala Hlehl, the editor in chief of the Balad party newspaper Fasal al-Makal. They forced him to resign and provoked a stormy debate about freedom of expression in Arab society. Hlehl, a playwright and translator, is one of the most prominent artists in Israeli Arab society, an important Balad activist. He is considered loyal to the party’s founder Azmi Bishara, and is well known for his courageous stands.
See: http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1022195.html
Illegal maid racket thrives in Ramadan
Nuha Adlan; 18/9/098
Ramadan is known to be the month of worship and simplicity but it’s also a month of hosting iftar and opening your home to guests. With this increased workload comes a temporary demand for extra domestic help. This help often comes from the pool of available illegal workers in the Kingdom. However, looking for workers in the black market can be risky. Just ask Rahma Mohammah, a 55-year-old housewife. “This year I hired an African maid and we agreed on a salary of SR2,000 to be paid on the 25th of Ramadan,” she said. “I took her to the market and I bought her some clothes and food so that she could feel comfortable. She was very kind and helpful during the first few days. But a few days later, the maid disappeared with the family’s jewelry, mobile phones and cash, Rahma said. “I never thought such a thing could happen,” said the housewife, who lives with her retired husband and one unmarried son. “We thought about reporting the robbery, but I am not sure if we would face legal consequences.”
See: http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=114460&d=18&m=9&y=2008
Fasting period during Ramadan
Ezzeddine Ebrahim; 19/9/08
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the main areas that reflects the nature of Islam as a religion of ease. In fact, the Quranic Verse of Ease is included in the verses that talk about fasting in Sourat Al Baqarah. Verse 185 of Al Baqarah says, “Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or travelling may substitute the same number of other days. God wishes for you convenience, not hardship, that you may fulfil your obligations, and to glorify God for guiding you, and to express your appreciation.”
See: http://www.gulfnews.com/opinion/columns/nation/10245968.html
