Ramadan: Exchange at the Breaking of the Fast
Muslims around the world observe Ramadan, marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, with an interfaith Iftar event organized by the Islamic Community of Penzberg attended by local dignitaries.
Muslims globally observe the holy month of Ramadan through fasting from dawn until sunset, a period associated with prayer, self-reflection, and social engagement. Each evening, the fast is broken at sunset during a meal known as 'Iftar', which varies in timing every day. The Islamic Community of Penzberg hosted an interfaith Iftar gathering on Sunday, which was attended by prominent figures including Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder and Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann, both from the CSU party.
This gathering continued a tradition initiated two years ago when the Penzberg community invited the Prime Minister to join in breaking the fast. The event emphasized interreligious dialogue and understanding, with representatives from various faiths in attendance, including Christoph Klingan, the general vicar of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising. Before the meal, Imam Benjamin Idriz introduced the Islamic Forum at Bichler Street, highlighting its establishment in 2005 as a center for community engagement and dialogue.
The significance of such events during Ramadan extends beyond mere social gatherings; they serve to bridge cultural and religious divides, fostering a spirit of cooperation and respect among different faith communities. With local leaders participating in these traditions, the events promote a message of solidarity and peace, encouraging continued collaboration and mutual understanding in the increasingly multicultural social landscape of Germany.