Lentorama 2019: Resurrect My Globe!
Day 19: Lebanon
On Palm Sunday, Lebanese Christians hold a procession called shanineh, where the clergy lead the congregation around the church, with children riding on their parents shoulders (though that may not be required, I've read a couple of sources that just say the kids process). The kids also hold candles decorated with things like ribbons and flowers. I don't know if the candles are lit, but if the kids are riding on their parents I hope not.
The other big tradition in Lebanon is the making of maamoul, a shortbread cookie stuffed with dates, nuts, or similar filling. There's a fair amount of symbolism involved in their preparation, from the wooden press used to shape them representing the cross to whether or not to dust them with sugar (not dusting them apparently represents the solemn nature of Lent).
Maamoul isn't strictly Lebanese - it's made across the Arab world - but is apparently very traditional for celebrating Easter there. But it's also not strictly for Easter, as it's also popular during Ramadan. Honestly, any observance that ends with cookies is OK with me.
27 March 2019
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