[agumonkey]

In France, from where I stand (I don't have close muslim friends), they also have large meals during the night.

I don't know if that was always the case in history of this religion, maybe in the past the night meal was simply a shared meal with the group, of normal size.

It seems that in your case and mine, we're seeing something that has more to do with symbolism and morals (no gluttony, more thoughtful days, sharing, empathy).