Episode 64.
Since Muslims are currently celebrating Ramadan, Nayma has graciously returned to the podcast to share her experience of the annual holiday, what she does and why it is important to her. For Nayma, Ramadan is a capsule of light, a pause button releasing her from the hamster wheel of daily life. She takes us on a journey through the traditions of iftar, the unique aspects of Ramadan in Bangladesh and the U.S., as well as the profound impact of fasting on the mind, body, and spirit. She reveals the spiritual significance and explains the critical elements of the annual month-long holiday: fasting, breaking the fast in community, prayer, reading the Qur’an, and giving charity.

Highlights:
·       A celebration of strength and mindfulness.
·       Connection with God and engagement with the community.
·       Mindful practices and self-restraint.
·       Amplification of prayers and attention to God.
·       Detox for mind, body, and soul.
·       Variety of iftar meals in the US compared to Bangladesh.

References:
Nayma's episode #26 - Grateful to God
https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/podcast-1/episode/7a113141/26-nayma-tasnim-islam-grateful-to-god

Yaqueen Institute articles on Ramadan –
- https://yaqeeninstitute.org/read/paper/how-does-ramadan-work-a-beginners-guide

- https://yaqeeninstitute.org/watch/series/pillar-4-what-is-the-purpose-of-fasting

Recipe – Beguni (Chickpea flour battered deep fried eggplant):

Ingredients: 
4 Tbl. Chickpea flour
One 4-5" eggplant
Chotpoti Moshola (Chat Masala)
Cayennne Pepper and Cumin Powder (alt. to Chat Masala)
Salt
Oil (for deep frying)

Steps:

1. Cut eggplant in half lengthwise and 2-3" wide slices.
2. Mix Chickpea flour with salt and Chotpoti Mashala (Chat Masala). Add water to make a thick paste. 
3. Season the batter with Chotpoti Moshola (Chat Masala) or ground Cayenne pepper, ground Cumin and salt.
4. Heat oil in a frying pan for deep frying.
5. Season eggplant slices with cayenne pepper (optional), cumin and salt to taste.
6. Coat the eggplant slices with seasoned chickpea batter and deep fry them until golden brown. 
7. Serve hot with Tamarind sauce, Raita, Tzatziki or sour cream.

Social Media links for Méli:
Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271


Transcript:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14781162

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The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. Learning about how Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith can prompt questions and exploration.  Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. 

Comments?  Questions? Email  Méli at – [email protected]
 

The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project.