Ramadan

[Holbeckian]

Are there any ostensibly Muslim countries where it is not compulsory for Muslims to observe Ramadan. The only one I could think of is possibly Turkey - but I'm not sure....

[charliebaps]

I teach Turkish students and they do observe Ramadan but do not partake in the fasting. They do observe Eid but see that as a party with family and drinking (bit like Christmas for a lot of people!).

I am sure there are Loads of Turkish people who do fast but those in London seem quite relaxed about the whole thing.

[Grunty]

The situation is similar in Turkey. Most of the people happen to be Muslims but there is no compulsion and the state is separate from the Faith. Also, Jordan under the guidance of the present king and his late father, has a high degree of freedom in religion. Of course in both countries, you would be expected to show respect to the majority Faith, including being dressed properly when entering a mosque. This is enforced for women in Jordan and for everybody in Turkey.

[Grunty]

I meant to say that religious intolerance is not always what we are told. After all, Saddam Hussein had a Christian deputy.

[woofgang]

umm he may have said that he was Christian but his behaviour?? I don't think so....

[Grunty]

woofgang - we could debate that point for ever. I can think of other politicians who profess to be Christians but have less respect for human life than Tariq Aziz had.