Sydney streets preparing for holy month

A Quiet Passion: Mohammad Ismail’s Journey with Nabulsi Knafeh

In a small shop just off Punchbowl’s bustling main road, Palestinian pharmacist-turned-cafe owner Mohammad Ismail is hard at work, crafting the first of thousands of his famous cheesy, sweet Nabulsi knafeh. This beloved Palestinian dessert is a staple in his family’s tradition and a favorite among locals and visitors alike. As Ramadan approaches, Ismail is preparing for the Lakemba Nights food market, a vibrant event where Muslims and community members gather to break their fasts during the holy month. For Ismail, this time of year is not just about food but about faith, family, and the resilience of his community.

The Significance of Ramadan for Mohammad Ismail

Ramadan, the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, holds a special place in Mohammad Ismail’s heart. For him, the holy period is a time to reflect on patience and trust in God’s plan. “Ramadan is the time where we practise patience,” he says. “You wait, you know there is something coming, the time of the sunset … With every conflict, there is an ease. God says it twice.” These words resonate deeply with Ismail as he thinks of his family back in Ramallah, the largest city in the occupied West Bank. Despite the uncertainty and challenges they face, Ismail holds onto hope and the promise of ease after hardship.

Life in Ramallah: A Family’s Struggle Amid Conflict

As Ismail works tirelessly to prepare for Lakemba Nights, his thoughts often drift to his family in Ramallah. “It’s up and down,” he describes their experience, referring to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. Life has become increasingly difficult for his parents, who struggle with rising costs and limited resources. Simple necessities, like fresh fruit, are now a luxury they can afford only once a week. Ismail’s words are laced with worry, but he remains steadfast in his faith, finding strength in the lessons of Ramadan.

The Broader Context: Conflict and Displacement

The situation in the West Bank is dire, with the United Nations reporting that Israeli government raids have left 40,000 people homeless. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the United Nations aid agency UNRWA, describes the region as “becoming a battlefield.” Last year’s Ramadan was particularly somber for Palestinian Muslims, weighed down by the violence in Gaza. However, Ismail remains cautiously optimistic. If the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas holds, he hopes this year’s Ramadan will bring a sense of renewal and hope to his community.

Lakemba Nights: A Celebration of Food and Community

Despite the challenges, Ismail finds joy in preparing for Lakemba Nights. The market, which runs in the evenings during Ramadan, is a space where people come together to break their fasts and celebrate their shared heritage. Ismail’s Nabulsi knafeh, a dish that combines layers of melted cheese, crunchy pastry, and sweet syrup, is a crowd favorite. For him, the act of cooking is not just about providing sustenance but about preserving his Palestinian heritage and sharing it with others.

Hope and Resilience: A Message for Ramadan

As the holy month begins, Mohammad Ismail’s story is one of hope and resilience. Though his family’s journey is marked by hardship, he believes in the power of faith and community to overcome adversity. Through his work at Lakemba Nights, Ismail connects with others, offering more than just food—he offers a taste of home, a sense of belonging, and a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is light. Ramadan, for Ismail, is not just a time of fasting and reflection but a testament to the strength and unity of his community.