VOA常速英语:穆斯林开斋节：荡涤心灵的旅程

Most of the world’s nearly 1.5 billion Muslims are observing the holy month of Ramadan when those in good health fast between sunrise and sunset.

Ibrahim Hooper, of the Council on American-Islamic Relations explains the spiritual benefit of foregoing food and drink.

“It teaches compassion for those who are less fortunate, those who can’t eat or drink through no choice of their own.When you come upon a situation where you could help someone in that situation,you are far more likely to help them if you’ve experienced that.”

Each day, as the sun goes down, the fast is broken with iftar.The ritual meal is an observance many like these Bosnians look forward to as they sit down with friends and family.

In Sudan, a Khartoum resident prepares assida, a porridge served with stews.

“Assida is the main meal of the iftar during the month of Ramadan. It’s eaten just after breaking the fast, because it is good and useful for the stomach, it is made from corn flour.”

The focus on iftar can drive up food prices.

In Pakistan’s Swat Valley, shopers are getting hit twice.

“Compared to last year, prices of edibles have increased by roughly 50 percent this year.With the arrival of Ramadan, prices go up and that considerably affects our business.”

Most of the people who live in the predominantly Kurdish city of Qamislo, in northern Syria,also complain about high prices.

“Everybody is not rich here, fruits and vegetables are too expensive, tomatoes, cucumbers are expensive. There is no control over prices, there should be control over the market, especially on tea, coffee and sugar.”

Yet despite the hardships, and often the help of charitable neighbors, most are able to enjoy the community and spirituality of these holy days.

Mariama Diallo, VOA news.