Riyadh: In the high mountains of Al-Baha, the arrival of Ramadan evokes a rich tapestry of memories, blending deep spirituality with enduring traditions of social solidarity. For the people of the region, the holy month is not just a religious observance but a revival of customs that have strengthened community bonds for generations.
According to Saudi Press Agency, elders in the region recall unique rituals used to announce the start of the holy month. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, an 80-year-old resident, said villagers used to light torches on mountaintops as a visual signal to neighboring communities that Ramadan had begun. In some villages, the firing of rifles into the air served as an auditory announcement, reflecting the simplicity of communication and the close-knit nature of society at the time.
Preparations for Ramadan were historically centered around 'Ramadan shopping' trips. Men would head to the weekly Raghadan Market and other governorate markets to stock up on essentials such as grains, ghee, dates, and coffee. Meanwhile, women would prepare ingredients for traditional dishes, grinding grains for flour and baking tandoor bread.
Iftar tables were distinguished by local delicacies, with aseeda (porridge) topped with ghee and honey taking center stage, alongside soups made from local grains and marqooq (flatbread stew). These meals were prepared in large quantities not just for the family but to share with neighbors, a practice embodying the values of altruism and compassion.
The spirit of brotherhood was perhaps most visible in the mosques. Before Maghrib prayer, residents would gather for communal Iftars, each bringing whatever dates or food they could spare. These shared meals, devoid of formality, symbolized equality and unity.
Evenings were filled with lively social gatherings. After Taraweeh prayers, men would meet in local majlises to exchange news and strengthen kinship ties, while women exchanged dishes between homes, reinforcing the community spirit.
Today, these cherished practices remain an integral part of Al-Baha's cultural heritage, revived each year to bridge the past with the present, ensuring that the values of simplicity and genuine human connection endure despite changing lifestyles.