BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS– Allah; the Almighty; says in the Holy Quran: “O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint”. (2:183).
Muslims, around the globe, have embarked on a month of abstinence, reflection, and soul searching. Celebrated by hundreds of millions of Muslims across the globe, Ramadan is observed every year during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar based on the cycles of the moon. It is the most sacred month of the year in Islamic culture when Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) in AD 610.
Ramadan observance begins the morning after the crescent moon is visibly sighted, marking the beginning of the new month. Traditionally, people searched for the slight crescent using the naked eye, which has led to the declaration of different starting times for Ramadan, due to weather or geography.
Taking place for approximately 30 days – depending on the sighting of the new moon, it is mandatory for all able-bodied Muslims, during which Muslims fast, abstaining completely from foods, drinks, intimate intercourse, smoking taking oral medications (exempting who are ill, can fast only with extreme difficulty, or on a journey. And in return, they should feed a needy person instead. “God wants ease for you, not hardship,” the Holy Quran says). Fasting begins before the break of the dawn till sunset during the entire month with a view to cleansing the heart from sin, selfishness, greed, impatience and hypocrisy and increasing sympathy for those who suffer as a person is not just a physical body but a soul as well. The month is divided into 10 days for mercy, 10 for forgiveness, and 10 for freeing hell.
For the fasting to be valid, a serious intention, or Niyyah, must be made to fast and adhere to fasting-related jurisdictions. The fast will be considered to be nullified if one eats or drinks, intentionally vomits, has sexual intercourse or has menstrual or childbirth bleeding.
Culturally, Ramadan is much more than a fasting period: it is rooted in culture, and history, marked with vibrant celebrations, breaking the monotony of the rest of the year, varying from one country to another.
The auspicious month of Ramadan is of utmost holiness in Algeria where it is greatly welcomed through the perpetration of past customs from one generation to another. Before the holy month of Ramadan begins, Algerians greet each other by saying “Sah Ramadankom” or “Happy Ramadan” and wait for it with a great deal of anticipation to the extent that it is given in this country the “honourable title of ‘Sidna Ramadan‘”. (Sidna means our owner or master), and “El Dayf el Aziz”; “the dear guest”.
Algerians differ in the way they prepare for and celebrate the Holy month of Ramadan. Most people, however, make it an occasion of family unity, service to society and supporting one another.
In the lead-up to the holy month of Ramadan, Algerians engage in a rich tapestry of authentic customs, laden with symbols and meanings deeply connected to the revered month of Allah. Referred to as “Sidi Ramadan” in Algeria, this nation upholds profound concepts of optimism, hope, and the fulfillment of aspirations during this sacred period.
Pre-Ramadan Preparations
The Algerian people get immersed in an unparalleled atmosphere, characterized by spiritual beauty as families prepare for Ramadan during the blessed month of Sha’ban. The preparations span both spiritual and social aspects, with families in Algeria showing unwavering commitment to their deep-rooted customs and traditions, rarely faltering in adhering to each intricate detail. Algerians metaphorically term these preparatory rituals as “Esthedar Riḥat Ramadan” or “Summoning the Scent of Ramadan.”
Preparations involve cleaning homes and mosques, where Algerian families meticulously organize, renovate, and repaint their homes while refreshing them with the scent of rosewater. New utensils and kitchenware, particularly those made of copper and clay, such as the traditional pot (tagine), are acquired as a symbol of good fortune and a nostalgic nod to the ‘fragrance of past Ramadans.’ Algerians eagerly flock to roadside and square-set tents, adorned with handcrafted utensils by skilled women and men who have grown up with a passion for craftsmanship.
Women in the capital city Algiers gather on rooftops to prepare the “nafakh” or “kanoun,” a handmade clay oven, known in Arabic as “al-Kanoun.” This traditional oven, prepared by women themselves, is used for roasting vegetables, creating the famous “Harour” dishes, also known as “H’mis” in some regions. In others, it is referred to as “mdaquqa” or “grilled salad.” This culinary delight is considered a favorable omen and a nostalgic invocation of the aroma of past Ramadans. Algerians, in their eagerness, also partake in communal events featuring traditional music, dances, and the vibrant display of local crafts.
Algerians prefer to paint the interiors of their homes in white, a practice deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. They believe that by honoring the holy month of Ramadan with white decor, they invite blessings and abundance. In the past, women in the capital Algiers, especially in the historic Casbah, started preparations as early as the 15th of Sha’ban. They collected contributions from trade professionals to paint the interiors and whitewash the exteriors, symbolizing the joy of welcoming the sacred month. This cultural richness has earned Algiers the nickname ‘The White Pearl.’
Algerian housewives meticulously engage in cleaning and also stock up on various spices, herbs, vegetables, and meats to freeze, ensuring they can prepare delicious meals for their families after a day of fasting. These preparations, carried out in a communal spirit, often involve neighbors, fostering a sense of shared joy in villages where celebrations and sorrows are collectively experienced.
The Algerian tradition of storing provisions is known as “Al-Oula,” a deeply ingrained practice. Wheat, ground flour (‘frek’), and ‘marmaz’ are stored for making soup, while falafel is prepared and packed in large glass containers with water, salt, and vinegar. Additionally, women prepare traditional tomato paste and various spice blends, such as ‘Ras el Hanout’ or ‘Al-Fouah,’ with some preferring to grind them manually.
In the province of Adrar, women prepare a local spice mix called ‘Al-Khatim,’ which consists of fermented spices formed into small dried doughs. These are later used daily in preparing the traditional dish called “Al-Hassaa.”
Algerian women also make and dry large quantities of couscous, a staple for the pre-dawn meal (‘suhoor’). They craft the intoxicatingly sweet “Cherrak Msakar,” shaped like a crescent moon, symbolizing the anticipation of the Ramadan crescent.
In essence, the meticulous and communal preparations for Ramadan, rooted in Algerian traditions, reflect a deep cultural connection and a shared celebration of this sacred month.
Floral Traditions and Social Bonds
Algerian women embrace the holy month of Ramadan by incorporating the essence of rose water and adorning their homes with flowers. They skillfully distill rose water, particularly from orange blossoms, for use in crafting special Ramadan treats such as “Zlabia,” “Baklava,” and “Qalb el Louz.” Additionally, the floral water serves as a delightful flavoring for coffee and tea during Ramadan gatherings. Some women, especially in the eastern provinces, share this fragrant water with neighbors, filling the surroundings with its pleasant aroma.
Moreover, Algerians uphold the tradition of “Al-Wazia,” a longstanding cooperative practice aimed at maintaining community cohesion. Known as “Tamsirt” or “Timshert” in Amazigh, this tradition involves community leaders and well-off individuals collecting funds to purchase livestock, such as cows or calves. The meat is then distributed evenly among the villagers, ensuring an equitable sharing between the rich and the poor.
As part of Ramadan customs, reconciliation sessions known as “Sulh” are held to reconcile disputes and eliminate animosities. This occasion becomes a significant opportunity for resolving conflicts, fostering family ties, and abandoning personal quarrels. Algerians recognize the humanitarian aspect of softening hearts during this period, actively seeking reconciliation among adversaries and restoring harmony. Often, community elders or leaders take on the responsibility of mediating and resolving lingering disputes, creating an atmosphere of solidarity, brotherhood, and tolerance.
Other Rituals :
In Algeria, there are unique rituals observed to bid farewell to the month of Sha’ban. Unmarried young men embark on pre-Ramadan excursions, known as “Farewell to Futoor” trips, reminiscent of bachelor party celebrations but with distinct customs. These young men opt for outdoor camping to unwind and release daily stress, preparing themselves for the upcoming holy month. During these trips, they set up barbecue feasts and enjoy a communal experience known as “Khilwa.”
In some regions, entire families participate in these rituals by spending an entire day in nature, organizing outdoor family barbecue outings. Affluent families may even travel to tourist destinations within the country for a two-day getaway.
Algerians also celebrate “Tchabinia” or the “Mid-Sha’ban Night,” marked by the saying, “Sha’ban, whoever has a beloved, let it be known.” On this day, Algerians observe fasting, exchange visits at night, and share meals with the saying: “May your souls be illuminated.” Families prepare delectable dishes for this occasion. Some households make “Bouicha” or “Bouqechch,” a dish similar to one called “Tkirbabine” in the Kabylie region. It involves a lengthy cooking process, combining meat and dates. Others prepare it with pitted dates mixed with coarse semolina, olive oil, and water until it reaches a homogeneous consistency. This mixture is then stuffed into the lamb’s stomach or “Karsha,” as it is known in the local dialect.
In the province of Blida, known as the “City of Roses,” women prepare traditional dishes such as “Rchta” (a traditional Algerian dish consisting of thin dough cooked with chicken broth) and in Khemis Miliana, families cook traditional foods like “Messamen” or “Regag” based on the region’s dialect.
Beyond the culinary aspects, families in Algeria observe the tradition of hosting married daughters for five days or a week during the month of Sha’ban. Special celebrations are held during this period to bid farewell to the month, rooted in the Algerian custom that urges married women to spend Ramadan with their immediate families. They only visit their in-laws on the second day of Eid and stay for a few days, especially if they are recently married.
Bathing is another significant tradition for Algerian families. One day before Ramadan, individuals take showers as part of the ritual “Tahara Lil Taher” or purification for the pure month. Algerians believe it is essential to enter Ramadan with spiritual and physical purity. Notably, traditional baths remain popular, serving as symbolic spaces for transition from one phase to another in an anthropological sense. Despite the emergence of modern beauty centers, traditional baths “Hamams” retain their allure, especially during special occasions and holidays. The symbolic significance lies in the baths being a passage point, providing warmth and a soothing atmosphere for body and soul.
Crescent Sighting Tradition in Algeria
Algerians rely on moon sighting to determine the commencement of the blessed month of Ramadan. Specialized religious and scientific committees across the country are tasked with moon observation and confirming the beginning of the Hijri months. These committees monitor the crescent, provide comprehensive data, and then officially announce the start of the Hijri month. Upon the confirmation of the crescent sighting, Algerians exchange greetings, wishing each other a blessed and healthy Ramadan.
In the province of Ghardaia, Algeria, individuals partake in a special meal (often “Chakhchoukha”) on the night of Ramadan. As the sun sets, adults with sharp eyesight ascend to the roof of the grand mosque, the highest point in the city, to observe the Ramadan crescent as per tradition. If the crescent is sighted, gunshots are fired after the Maghrib call to signal the beginning of the fasting month. Subsequently, children take to the streets, banging on anything metallic, chanting, “Yawm al-‘Eid Ash Dal’aid Ramadan,” meaning “The day of Ramadan has begun, announcing Ramadan.” Following this, Tarawih prayers commence after a sermon and Isha prayers.
Ramadan Customs in Algeria: Culinary Traditions
In Algeria, Ramadan customs encompass diverse culinary practices that begin with queues for acquiring various types of bread and sweets. Algerians, alongside Iranians, gather as a family for Iftar, but variations arise in eating habits. Algerians typically consume their Iftar in one sitting after Maghreb prayers, while Iranians follow a different pattern. After Tarawih prayers, Algerians spread a table of sweets, expressing gratitude and prayers. The Iftar begins with dates and milk, following the tradition of the Prophet. The meal includes various dishes such as the traditional “chorba” (soup) and regional specialties like “couscous,” changing daily. Desserts, like “qalb al-louz” and “zlabia,” hold a special place, enjoyed while watching TV or visiting friends. Some prefer outdoor activities or playing dominoes during Ramadan nights.
Noteworthy is the “daïr” tradition in southern Algeria, specifically in the region of Ouargla. This tradition involves nightly gatherings at a host’s home, with a circular table featuring traditional Algerian dishes. The participants rotate the hosting responsibilities, starting with the designated host. The “daïr” aims to strengthen bonds of love, brotherhood, and family ties. A similar tradition exists among the Amazigh families known as “Shlouh” in the southwestern part of Algeria, where nightly gatherings called “tanshta” involve spiritual discussions and tea sessions.
Commemorative Events in Algeria
Religious rituals play a central role in Algeria during the holy month of Ramadan, symbolizing the significance of this spiritually enriching period for the two brotherly nations. Algerians, known for their strong connection to supplication, engage in reading prayers multiple times a day, often tuning into Algerian stations broadcasting various supplications and religious programs. The devout attendance of mosques is a common practice, with Algerians observing Tarawih.
Families in Algeria actively come together for prayers, reinforcing familial and spiritual bonds. The religious centers host cultural programs, Quran memorization competitions, and religious celebrations, reaching a climax on the blessed Night of Qadr. Algerian mosques organize special events to honor Quran memorizers, attended by state officials. Additionally, religious centers, especially in Algeria, focus on charitable activities, including iftar for the poor and the distribution of food parcels to needy families.
The Balqaydian Sufi order (Zawiya) in Algeria, in recent years, has organized a series of gatherings addressing the virtues and merits of the Prophet Muhammad’s family (Ahl al-Bayt), with the participation of the Minister of Religious Affairs. These sessions, named “Zahra’s Councils,” delve into the lives and virtues of figures like Sada Khadijah, Fatimah, Ali, Hassan, and Hussein (A.S), aiming to enrich various aspects of their lives and their roles in upholding the Islamic message.
Furthermore, the Balqaydian Sufi order annually hosts the Muhammadan Studies Series during Ramadan, featuring scholars from various countries. This event covers diverse topics, such as the significance of the Quranic verse “Say, I do not ask you for any reward except love for close relatives,” and includes Quran memorization competitions under the Sheikh Muhammad Abdelatif Belkaid Quran Memorization Award.
The annual International Quran Memorization Competition in Algeria, established by the late President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, attracts participants under 25, while a supportive competition engages children under 15. The winners are honored in a ceremony held on the night of the 27th of Ramadan, broadcasted live on television and radio, demonstrating the commitment of Algeria to Quranic education and the promotion of Islamic heritage.
The Role of Algerian Media in Promoting Quranic Education and Values
The Algerian media proudly dedicate itself to serving the Quran and disseminating its teachings across all aspects of religious and worldly life. Their commitment is evident in highlighting scholarly and outreach activities related to the Quran, organizing local and international memorization competitions, and conducting insightful interviews with participants. Special channels and radio stations have been established to deliver social, cultural, and intellectual programs rooted in Quranic principles, aiming to connect the Quran and its teachings to various aspects of individuals’ lives.
Algerian national television features special Ramadan programs, such as “Taj Al-Quran,” while Channel El-Bahia hosts a Quranic memorization competition for children. Public channels broadcast the proceedings of the International Quran Memorization Competition, one of the most significant international events in the field. Additionally, 24-hour religious and educational programs are aired on the Quran TV channel and the National Quran Radio.
Private channels also contribute by organizing Quran memorization competitions, with these events becoming an annual tradition in Algeria.
Algerian newspapers also contribute to promoting religious and behavioral education during Ramadan, with publications like El Waseet, El Chaab, and El Raïs dedicating pages to topics such as fasting rulings, the Prophet’s biography, Islamic heritage, the beautiful names of Allah, mosque presentations, Quranic interpretation, and the eloquence of the Prophet.
Cultural and Sporting Programs in Algeria: A Rich Tapestry for Families
Cultural and sports authorities in Algeria are actively shaping diverse cultural, artistic, and sports programs for families. Youth-focused initiatives are widespread across all regions, featuring entertainment villages tailored for children and festivals showcasing popular, religious, and Andalusian music, drawing participation from a constellation of talented Algerian artists proficient in these rich traditions. In the sports domain, Algerian provinces host tournaments, competitions, sports events, and intellectual contests, contributing to the vibrant cultural and sporting landscape in the country.
The Special Significance of the Mid-Month Night in Ramadan for Algerian Families
The celebration of the mid-month night in the holy month of Ramadan holds a distinct and special character for both Algerians and Iranians. Most families, following traditions passed down through generations, observe and celebrate this night, considering it a blessed occasion.
In Algeria, families commemorate the half of Ramadan, known locally as “Al-Nisfeya,” with customs deeply rooted in family traditions. The night becomes an opportunity for social visits and the preparation of a special Iftar, while emphasizing increased devotion in the remaining two weeks of fasting. Families often gather in the ancestral home, preparing various dishes for the family Iftar, inviting neighbors to join. The spread on this occasion includes traditional Algerian dishes such as “Chorba,” “Tikourbabine” or “Bakbouka,” and the sweet tagine. A significant dish for this night is “Couscous,” considered essential due to its sacred connotation, alongside “Rchta” with chicken. Different regions showcase their distinctive dishes; for instance, Biskra is known for “Chekhchoukha Biskria,” a dish with meat, red broth, and kneaded dough cooked and crumbled, topped with the broth. In the capital, Algiers, the Sétif-style Iftar table features the fragrant “Frik” soup with green and dried mint, accompanied by home-baked bread. Salads, including “Hmiss,” prepared with grilled sweet and hot peppers, grilled tomatoes, and garlic, are also staples.
After Iftar, people head to mosques for the evening and Tarawih prayers, returning home for nights filled with family gatherings and festive activities. These Ramadan nights provide a cherished opportunity for socializing, offering trays of tea with Ramadan sweets and nuts to family and loved ones. For Suhoor in the eastern region, it often includes “M’tloa” and milk.
In addition to prayers, Algerians partake in cultural traditions, with women singing folk songs and elders sharing traditional proverbs. Women engage in a practice known as “Boukalat,” where an elder woman places her golden ring in a clay bowl, passing it to young girls who pull the ring while she recites folk songs and proverbs, creating a festive Ramadan atmosphere.
For many Algerian families, this occasion marks the perfect time for circumcising their children, a tradition believed to bring blessings during the sacred days of Ramadan. Special meals are prepared for the newly fasting children, creating a memorable evening for the family.
Some families in the city of Ain Temouchent in western Algeria celebrate by slaughtering a chicken or rooster and making “R’qaq” as a fundamental dish for the night. Families, especially in rural areas, may use incense to infuse their homes with pleasant scents, symbolizing the arrival of the second half of Ramadan. Affluent families may sacrifice a sheep, distributing a significant portion of the meat to those in need as a charitable gesture.
As Algerians gather in mosques on this blessed night, families seize the opportunity to give alms, seeking rewards and blessings. Families also uphold the tradition of circumcision during Ramadan, a practice deeply ingrained in Algerian culture. The belief in the auspicious nature of Ramadan motivates families to engage in this cultural and religious event, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) – A Night Better Than a Thousand Months
The Night of Decree holds unique and celebratory rituals in Algeria, symbolizing the greatness of this night. In Algeria, people flock to mosques to perform Tarawih prayers, and special celebrations are held, including the completion of the Quran recitation and an official religious ceremony attended by ministers and state officials to honor Quran memorizers. Additionally, charitable donations are distributed to the needy, poor, and disadvantaged.
Algerian households embrace the night by using incense, and families make a tradition of circumcising their sons on the 27th night of Ramadan. The child wears traditional Algerian attire, adorned with henna on their palms. Traditional clothing includes an embroidered cloak called “Al-Qandura,” a red hat known as “Tarbouche,” a necklace made of “Aoud Naware,” and the child is covered with “Al-Burnous.” After returning from the doctor, the child celebrates with family, relatives, and receives gifts and money on this joyous occasion. It’s customary to circumcise multiple children from one family, and a celebration is held for them, involving henna, gift-giving, and monetary rewards for those displaying bravery by not crying during the procedure.
Some families choose to sacrifice a sheep in honor of the children, followed by preparing a special feast. Family members and guests gather for a Ramadan evening, where tea cups dominate the familial gathering.
In the province of Ouargla, there’s a unique tradition on the night of Laylat al-Qadr. On the evening of the 26th day of Ramadan, children in various neighborhoods, villages, and suburbs, recite chants signaling their readiness for the festivities. They stand at doorsteps to receive candies, juices, various dishes, and other gifts generously given by residents, marking the anticipation of Laylat al-Qadr.
If the generosity of the households has been exhausted, they respond to the children with a kind phrase, “Kolouh,” meaning “They ate it,’ indicating that there is nothing more to offer at that moment. This tradition is a significant part of celebrating the arrival of Laylat al-Qadr in the region, where children spend the night before it eagerly preparing for the candy and biscuit collection campaign.
Social and Solidarity Initiatives during Ramadan in Algeria
Thousands of mercy restaurants open their doors across Algeria, with even popular eateries transforming into free establishments for the poor, needy, and travelers. These initiatives embody the highest expressions of social solidarity, compassion, and communal support in Algerian society.
The Algerian government, through the Algerian Red Crescent, also takes on the responsibility of providing meals to the needy. Additionally, they allocate food baskets containing essential items, distributed to the poor as part of a communal assistance program overseen by municipalities and special committees.
Many Algerian youths dedicate their time to helping the less fortunate, sacrificing moments with their families to prepare Ramadan Iftar meals. These meals closely resemble home-cooked dishes, creating a sense of belonging for attendees. Offerings include Algerian specialties like “Algerian soup,” and various renowned Ramadan dishes (Borek, sweet meat, Shakhshukha al-Zafar, among others), along with a variety of fruits such as bananas, apricots, watermelons, dates, and more.
The Tradition of “Mosaharati” in Algeria
The “Mosaharati” tradition, a popular Algerian practice, involves individuals calling out at night to awaken sleepers for the pre-dawn meal during Ramadan. This tradition is deeply rooted in Algerian villages and some southern provinces like Ouargla and El Oued, where it is known as “Boutbila” or “Attabal,” referring to the drumstick-tapping on a drum that signals the start of the pre-dawn meal. Mousaharatis, with their traditional drum beats and melodic voices, roam residential areas every Ramadan night before the pre-dawn meal, echoing phrases like “Wake up, sleeper, and praise the Everlasting” or “Suhur, O believers in Suhur.” Other expressions encourage people to wake up for the pre-dawn meal, emphasizing the significance of Ramadan. However, in contemporary times, this custom has become almost extinct.
According to Algerian folk heritage researcher Djaloul El Djilali, Mousaharatis have largely disappeared, with their presence diminishing by about 90%. He notes that the decline began in the late 1960s, approximately 60 years ago, coinciding with the advent of modern technology such as electronic devices, televisions, alarm clocks, and the internet. These technological advancements have negatively impacted oral traditions and popular customs in Algeria, including the Meshrati, as electronic devices now compete with and surpass their role in waking people for Suhur.
In the past, Mousaharati had additional roles beyond announcing Suhur time, such as proclaiming the time for Iftar and the Maghrib call to prayer by beating the traditional drum (def) and announcing the start of the blessed month of Ramadan. El Djilali also highlights that the distinctive attire of El Musaharati during the French colonial period (1830-1962) included a uniform resembling that of the police, with a hat similar to the Tunisian hat featuring a black cord.
Children’s First Fasting Experience: Celebrations and Traditions
In Algeria, the initiation of children into the practice of fasting is marked by significant attention and care from their families. This is aimed at encouraging patience and fostering a commitment to this religious ritual, preparing them for a lifetime of observing the complete fasting month of Ramadan. In Algeria, this ritual is termed the ‘End of Innocence,’ symbolizing the transition to maturity and awareness.
As previously mentioned, Algerian children not yet obligated to fast begin their fast on the day preceding the night of the 15th day of Ramadan, known as the 14th of Ramadan, or on the night of the 27th, known as “Laylat al-Qadr” (Night of Power). For older children, fasting commences from the first day of Ramadan. A special drink, prepared with water, sugar, and lemon, is crafted for these children. It is presented in a vessel with a gold ring for girls or a silver one for boys, encouraging other children to follow suit. These preparations occur in a festive atmosphere, with the presence of parents, grandparents, and relatives, maintaining ancestral customs and traditions.
The fasting child adorns the finest traditional attire and sits among the attendees as a symbol of regality. After the Iftar (breaking the fast), a special evening is organized for the fasting child, featuring tea, various beverages, and a variety of sweets. Following the Iftar, the child’s grandmother or an elderly lady applies henna, sings, and imparts good omens. Celebratory practices vary across regions. For instance, some families offer the fasting child a sip of water mixed with orange blossom water at the first Iftar, followed by a single date. The child is not compelled to consume a specific meal; instead, the choice is left to them, and the parents must obediently follow their wishes.
In the southern regions of Algeria, a grand feast is organized, often accompanied by a small circumcision ceremony. The children’s hands are adorned with henna, and other children attending the festivity are encouraged to emulate the fasting child, reinforcing their ability to endure the challenges of fasting. In the Sahara region, specifically in Béchar, mothers prepare special dishes reminiscent of those made by grandmothers decades ago. One notable beverage is a local concoction derived from date juice, known as “Wazawaza,” aiding in overcoming thirst. The Saharan child wears the traditional turban, symbolizing the path from innocence to maturity. In regions like Hassi Messaoud, recognized as the ‘Petroleum Capital,’ mothers create special dishes, and a local drink is prepared from date palms. The child wears the ‘Amama’ typical of Bedouin headwear in the desert, and a white cloak signifies the end of the innocence phase, ushering in maturity and awareness.
Among the M’zabites, the family of the fasting child prepares a mixture called “Ziriza and Tkandourt,” a combination of fried wheat, dates, local ghee, and dried buttermilk. This dish, both food and sweet, is shaped into balls and placed in a terracotta bowl called “Aqdouh.” The child consumes one piece each day during Ramadan, and the remaining portions are distributed to young relatives and neighbors as a gesture of goodwill. In Mozabite regions, this occasion may coincide with a small circumcision ceremony, and the child’s hand is marked with henna, signifying the successful completion of their first fast.
Unique Ramadan Customs in Different Regions
Countries exhibit distinct celebratory aspects during Ramadan, and in Algeria’s Guelma region, some youth traditionally chose to marry on the night of the 27th of Ramadan. Celebrations feature cultural music, religious chants, and unique rituals like the Gaïta and Bendir Nāʾilī. However, this tradition has waned in recent years, with the youth opting for more contemporary wedding dates. Meanwhile, in Bni M’zab, Ghardaia, southern Algeria, families maintain the custom of “Tnouba.” Each family dedicates a day in Ramadan to prepare traditional dishes, distributing them to worshippers at the mosque. This practice has endured through generations.
Preparations for Eid al-Fitr in Algeria
As the holy month of Ramadan in Algeria approaches its conclusion, Algerians engage in fervent preparations for Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “smaller Eid.” This festive period involves thorough house cleaning, purchasing new clothes, crafting sweets and dishes, charity for the poor, and giving Zakat al-Fitr.
In the last week of Ramadan, Algerian homes transform into workshops for cleaning and preparing traditional sweets, marking the impending end of Ramadan and the onset of the joyous Eid al-Fitr. The Algerian delight “Makroud” takes the lead among traditional Eid sweets, crafted with almonds in the capital and central cities or with “Ghars” (date paste) in the eastern regions. It is then fried and dipped in honey. Other festive treats include a variety of pastries like Baklava, Samosa, Chebakia, Griouche, Ghoriba, Samsa, and Qanidlat, each claiming a place on the Algerian Eid table. Among these, “Tcharek” stands out, symbolizing masculinity and courage, filled with date paste or nuts and coated with white cream.
As the month of Allah concludes, Algerians observe the custom of “Hakk al-Melh” or “Right to Salt.” This ancient tradition symbolizes the deep bond and affection between spouses, underscoring the unity of families. After the man finishes his morning coffee on Eid day, he places a gold or silver ring, a sum of money, or a specific gift in his wife’s, sister’s, mother’s, or daughter’s coffee or tea tray as a recognition of their efforts and hard work in the kitchen during Ramadan.
The term “Hakk al-Melh” or “Right to Salt” originates from a well-known saying among Algerians: “He who ate with me salt and bread is like family to me.” It signifies that whoever shared a meal in your home, even if a stranger, has become a part of the family and a friend.
Happy Ramadan!
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