Iraqis mark the Islamic holy month of Ramadhan with a diverse array of unique traditions and social practices. One of the most popular activities during the month of dawn-to-dusk fasting is Mheibes, an age-old game where rival teams must find a hidden ring. Believed to have been passed down from one generation to another since the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258), Iraqis throughout the country gather in courtyards and cafes after breaking fast to play the game, sometimes until the early hours of morning.

The game starts with one team hiding the ring in the hands of one of its members. The other team then selects a leader, referred to as “Al-Nazoul,” who is tasked with figuring out who holds the ring. The Nazoul must rely on their ability to read body language and facial expressions and not fall for the tricks of the opposing side...