Qarqe'an

Qarqe'an () is an annual tradition practiced in most arabic countries specially in the middle east like [Qatar , United arab of Emirates , Saudi Arabia , Kuwait , Oman] during the holy month of Ramadan (13-15 Ramadan). The tradition has existed for hundreds of years: children knock on the doors of homes in their neighborhood wearing traditional clothes and carrying a basket to receive sweets and nuts.

Although the celebration of Qarqe'an shares superficial similarities with the Halloween custom of trick-or-treating, practiced in some western countries, Qarqe'an has no connection with horror and no associated origin with Halloween.

Etymology

The word Qarqe'an is derived from Qarqa'ah (), which means click or snick, the sound of iron pots carrying the sweets hitting each other while serving the sweets.

Tradition

Children gather in small choir groups in front of a home and sing. The song is intended to call on Allah to bless the youngest child of the family, to keep him or her healthy that the mother will remain happy. The more they sing, the more nuts and sweets they receive.

The Qarqe'an tradition is intended to spread love, happiness and affection among adults and children.

In modern times, the cooperation societies and various stores compete to attract customers during this time via advertising in newspapers and on TV, and by offering special promotions.

References

http://e.gov.kw/News/KUNAMoreNews_Eng.aspx?NewsId=58396

Category:Arabic culture Category:Ramadan