Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam. Millions of muslims spend this month fasting, reflecting, and focusing on their faith. Two important meals during this time are Suhoor and Iftar. So, what is Iftar, and why is it so important? And what about Suhoor? It is necessary to know these meals so that we understand the spiritual and religious aspects of fasting in Ramadan.
What Is Iftar In Ramadan?
Iftar refers to the meal that ends the daily fast during Ramadan or anytime you are fasting. Muslims break their fast at sunset with this meal after a day without food, drink, and fulfilling other physical needs. This moment brings relief, thankfulness, and a chance to reflect. It also brings families and groups together, strengthening bonds of love and unity.
Iftar in Ramadan is not just about food. Ramadan and iftar are times to be thankful, practice self-control, and strengthen faith in Allah (SWT). Fasting helps people understand the struggles of those who don't have enough food and teaches compassion and kindness. Many Muslims give to charity, share their meals, and invite others to join them for iftar.
What Time Is Iftar?
Now we know the answer to "what time does fasting end" is Iftar time. But when does Iftar start? Iftar takes place at Maghrib (sunset) prayer. But the exact time varies around the world. It depends on factors like location, season, and local prayer schedules.
In some places, Iftar during Ramadan is served much earlier, while in others, it’s much later, even at night. The further a place is from the equator, the longer the fasting hours. For instance, in some places, such as Norway or Iceland, Muslims may have to fast for over 20 hours. In contrast, people in areas closer to the equator have a more uniform fasting hour of 12-14 hours.
The precise time of iftar varies. It is determined by Islamic scholars and religious institutions based on lunar calendars and astronomical calculations. Many Muslims use printed-out Ramadan timetables, while others use smartphone apps and follow mosque announcements to confirm they are breaking fast at the right time.
The Quran instructs believers:
"أُحِلَّ لَكُمۡ لَيۡلَةَ ٱلصِّيَامِ ٱلرَّفَثُ إِلَىٰ نِسَآئِكُمۡۚ هُنَّ لِبَاسٞ لَّكُمۡ وَأَنتُمۡ لِبَاسٞ لَّهُنَّۗ عَلِمَ ٱللَّهُ أَنَّكُمۡ كُنتُمۡ تَخۡتَانُونَ أَنفُسَكُمۡ فَتَابَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ وَعَفَا عَنكُمۡۖ فَٱلۡـَٰٔنَ بَٰشِرُوهُنَّ وَٱبۡتَغُواْ مَا كَتَبَ ٱللَّهُ لَكُمۡۚ وَكُلُواْ وَٱشۡرَبُواْ حَتَّىٰ يَتَبَيَّنَ لَكُمُ ٱلۡخَيۡطُ ٱلۡأَبۡيَضُ مِنَ ٱلۡخَيۡطِ ٱلۡأَسۡوَدِ مِنَ ٱلۡفَجۡرِۖ ثُمَّ أَتِمُّواْ ٱلصِّيَامَ إِلَى ٱلَّيۡلِۚ وَلَا تُبَٰشِرُوهُنَّ وَأَنتُمۡ عَٰكِفُونَ فِي ٱلۡمَسَٰجِدِۗ تِلۡكَ حُدُودُ ٱللَّهِ فَلَا تَقۡرَبُوهَاۗ كَذَٰلِكَ يُبَيِّنُ ٱللَّهُ ءَايَٰتِهِۦ لِلنَّاسِ لَعَلَّهُمۡ يَتَّقُونَ"
"It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah (SWT) knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah (SWT) has decreed for you. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the sunset. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits [set by] Allah (SWT) , so do not approach them. Thus does Allah (SWT) make clear His ordinances to the people that they may become righteous."
(Quran 2:187)
This means fasting ends precisely at sunset.
Significance Of Iftar In Ramadan
Iftar in Ramadan is not just a meal but a time of religious and spiritual rebirth. After long hours of fasting, the body is replenished, and the soul is raised through prayer and gratitude.
Ramadan and Iftar are connected by self-discipline, patience, and devotion to Allah (SWT) .
Iftar is not just about eating to satisfy hunger; it's also a time for people to gather, show generosity, and create unity. Here's why this meal holds such great importance.
Spiritual Significance
Iftar during Ramadan reminds us of Allah (SWT)'s mercy and the importance of sustenance. Fasting teaches us self-restraint, builds gratitude, and strengthens our faith in Allah (SWT).
Iftar, the time of breaking fast, is a good time for making dua. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
'There are two joys for the fasting person: the joy when he breaks his fast, and the joy of when he meets his Lord (say his prayer).'
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi 766)
Physical Benefits
Ramadan fasting has many health benefits. The iftar meal helps hydrate one's body and replenish nutrients lost during the day.
Eating dates to break the fast at Iftar is a practice from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Dates give a quick energy boost and are a healthy way to start the meal. With a properly planned Iftar meal, your metabolism will improve, your body will detoxify, and your overall well-being will improve.
Community Bonding
Iftar is a time for people to come together with kindness, generosity, and a spirit of sharing. Families, friends, and neighbors gather around the table to break their fast. In many places, mosques and Islamic centers host communal iftar meals for everyone to enjoy together.
In Islam, it’s highly rewarded to serve Iftar meals to others and share food. It was narrated from Zaid bin Khalid Al-Juhani that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,
"Whoever gives food for a fasting person to break fast, he will have a reward like theirs, without that detracting from their reward in the slightest."
(Sunan Ibn Majah 1746)
A Time for Reflection and Growth
Iftar in Ramadan is a period of self-improvement. Muslims look back on their spiritual journey, ask for forgiveness, and make plans to be better persons. It is a peaceful moment, filled with mindfulness and gratitude. Whether you are breaking fast alone or with loved ones, it encourages faith and personal growth.
During Ramadan, each iftar meal teaches Muslims about patience and humility. It reminds us to be grateful for all the blessings of Allah (SWT), such as proper meals that we sometimes take for granted. Fasting can become a proper time for reflection and reward if you can fully appreciate its meaning.
Sunnah Practices For Iftar
Breaking the fast the way Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did offers both spiritual and physical benefits. These practices help make the Iftar meal healthy and blessed. Eating iftar in Ramadan doesn't just involve eating after a long fast. It entails gratitude, discipline, and charity in general. So here are some important Sunnah practices to follow when breaking your fast
Starting the meal with dates and water: The Prophet (PBUH) advised starting Iftar with dates and water. Anas bin Malik narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
"Whoever has dried dates, then let him break the fast with that, and whoever does not, then let him break the fast with water, for indeed water is purifying."
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi 694)
Sharing iftar meals with others: Iftar in Ramadan is an opportunity to be generous by sharing Iftar meals with others. Eating the iftar meal with family, friends, and especially those in need is a rewarding experience. It was narrated from Zaid bin Khalid Al-Juhani that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
“Whoever gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will have a reward like theirs, without that detracting from their reward in the slightest.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah 1746)
Breaking fast in time: It is suggested to break fast as soon as possible when it is time for Maghrib without any delay. You should say your prayers after breaking your fast. The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized this:
"The people will remain upon goodness so long as they hasten to break the fast."
(Sunan Ibn Majah 1698)
These Sunnah practices remind us that iftar meals are not just about refilling the body but also a moment for spiritual rejuvenation, showing gratitude, and bonding with the community. As we break fast, these practices can help us make the most of Iftar in Ramadan and obtain Allah's blessings.
What Is Suhoor?
Suhoor meaning the pre-dawn meal that is eaten in the hours before the break of dawn in Ramadan. The word 'Suhoor" in Arabic means "the last part of the night." It is also called Suhur, Sehri, or Sahur in different languages. It is important for supplying energy to the body throughout a day-long fast.
Suhoor is eaten before the first light of dawn, which is the start of the fasting time. It is an extremely significant Sunnah reported by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Narrated Anas bin Malik: The Prophet (PBUH) said,
"Take Suhur as there is a blessing in it."
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1923)
Suhoor provides many benefits on the spiritual, physical, and psychological levels. It is spiritually in accordance with the Sunnah and brings blessings to the day. Physically, it helps the body stay energized and hydrated during fasting. It psychologically prepares the mind for fasting and boosts resilience. In a nutshell, Suhoor nourishes the body, mind, and soul, helping you endure the fast.
Time Of Suhoor
The last part of the night is when Suhoor is eaten, finishing just before dawn. However, it is recommended that Suhoor be delayed and eaten as close as possible to the Fajr prayer to conserve energy throughout the day. Narrated Anas: Zaid bin Thabit said,
"We took the Suhur with the Prophet (PBUH) . Then he stood for the prayer." I asked, "What was the interval between the Suhur and the Adhan?" He replied, "The interval was sufficient to recite fifty verses of the Qur'an."
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1921)
What Time Does Suhoor End?
The fast begins after Fajr prayer, and this is the end of Suhoor. The Quran states:
"أُحِلَّ لَكُمۡ لَيۡلَةَ ٱلصِّيَامِ ٱلرَّفَثُ إِلَىٰ نِسَآئِكُمۡۚ هُنَّ لِبَاسٞ لَّكُمۡ وَأَنتُمۡ لِبَاسٞ لَّهُنَّۗ عَلِمَ ٱللَّهُ أَنَّكُمۡ كُنتُمۡ تَخۡتَانُونَ أَنفُسَكُمۡ فَتَابَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ وَعَفَا عَنكُمۡۖ فَٱلۡـَٰٔنَ بَٰشِرُوهُنَّ وَٱبۡتَغُواْ مَا كَتَبَ ٱللَّهُ لَكُمۡۚ وَكُلُواْ وَٱشۡرَبُواْ حَتَّىٰ يَتَبَيَّنَ لَكُمُ ٱلۡخَيۡطُ ٱلۡأَبۡيَضُ مِنَ ٱلۡخَيۡطِ ٱلۡأَسۡوَدِ مِنَ ٱلۡفَجۡرِۖ ثُمَّ أَتِمُّواْ ٱلصِّيَامَ إِلَى ٱلَّيۡلِۚ وَلَا تُبَٰشِرُوهُنَّ وَأَنتُمۡ عَٰكِفُونَ فِي ٱلۡمَسَٰجِدِۗ تِلۡكَ حُدُودُ ٱللَّهِ فَلَا تَقۡرَبُوهَاۗ كَذَٰلِكَ يُبَيِّنُ ٱللَّهُ ءَايَٰتِهِۦ لِلنَّاسِ لَعَلَّهُمۡ يَتَّقُونَ"
"It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah (SWT) knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah (SWT) has decreed for you. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the sunset. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits [set by] Allah (SWT), so do not approach them. Thus does Allah (SWT) make clear His ordinances to the people that they may become righteous."
(Quran 2:187)
Significance Of Suhoor
In Ramadan, the pre-dawn meal, Suhoor, is very important. It not only nourishes the body but also prepares the mind and soul for the day of the fast. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned that there is a blessing in it.
"Take Suhur as there is a blessing in it."
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1923)
So, here are some reasons why Suhoor is exceedingly important:
Spiritual Blessing
Suhoor is a blessed practice that follows the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It helps Muslims fulfill their religious duty and prepares them spiritually for the fast. The Prophet (PBUH) advised delaying the Suhoor as much as possible before the Fajr prayer to receive the blessing of the day.
Provides Energy for Fasting
Suhoor provides essential nutrients and hydration that sustain us for a long day of fasting. It gives the body fuel and protects it against hunger or dehydration until sunset.
Health Benefits
Suhoor is eating a balanced meal that helps digestion and prevents headaches and fatigue during fasting. Eating Suhoor keeps the body in a natural rhythm, which is good for the body as a whole.
Psychological Preparedness
Before the busy day of fasting starts, Suhoor gives us a moment to reflect and be mindful. It's a chance for personal growth and self-discipline, helping us get ready for the challenges of fasting. Suhoor prepares our minds for the fast ahead.
Promotes Unity and Family Bonding
Sharing Suhoor with family and friends strengthens bonds and builds a sense of community. Similarly, Suhoor gives Muslims an occasion to gather with loved ones just as much as Iftar does, especially in Ramadan when such moments are cherished.
Suhoor is more than just a meal! It is an act that aids the body, mind, and soul. By following the Sunnah and having a balanced Suhoor, Muslims can start their day and fast with the physical energy, spiritual focus, and mental readiness needed for a blessed Ramadan.
Sunnah Practices For Suhoor
There are many physical and spiritual benefits of following the Sunnah practices of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during Suhoor. These practices help you enjoy a pre-dawn meal in Islamic traditions, stay healthy, and receive more blessings. Suhoor is not just about eating before the fast; it’s an opportunity to strengthen your faith, practice self-discipline, and feel Allah (SWT)’s mercy.
The following are some of the Sunnah things we should practice for Suhoor.
Eating a small meal at Fajr time
The Prophet (PBUH) advised us to eat Suhoor as soon as possible before the time of Fajr prayer. The closer to Fajr, the more benefit the meal provides since it helps the person have energy for the day of fasting.
Starting with dates
As he did with Iftar, the Prophet (PBUH) also suggested eating dates during Suhoor. It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said: The Messenger of Allaah (PBUH) said:
“How good is the believers meal of dates shortly before dawn."
(Sunan Abi Dawud 2345)
Dates provide quick energy and help maintain balanced blood sugar levels during fasting because they contain natural sugars, fiber, and minerals.
Drinking water
Staying hydrated is important during fasting and Suhoor. The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged drinking water with the meal. Drinking enough water before fasting helps prevent dehydration.
Making Dua before eating
According to the Sunnah, it is recommended to make a supplication asking for Allah (SWT)'s blessing before Suhoor. Among the common duas is 'O Allah (SWT), bless us with Suhoor and make it beneficial for us.' This dua highlights the meal's spiritual importance and seeks Allah (SWT)'s mercy.
The Sunnah practices of Suhoor do not end at mealtime. Ratger, it becomes a moment of spiritual nourishment, physical preparation, and gratitude. Following in the footsteps of the great Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) will increase your dedication to fasting, improve your well-being, and bring you more blessings during Ramadan.
Healthy Iftar And Suhoor: Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) Practices
The Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for Iftar and Suhoor promotes physical health and spiritual well-being. These practices are meant to ensure the meals you're eating during Ramadan provide you with the needed sustenance and blessing for fasting. Some key points from the
- Iftar and Suhoor with dates and water:
Dates and water were always the first foods the Prophet (PBUH) broke fast with. He also took them during Suhoor as they were quick sources of energy and hydration.
- Moderation in eating:
Do not eat to the point of being full. Begin with light food and eat in moderation to prevent digestive problems.
- Consuming nutritious foods:
Whole grains, fruits, and hydrating foods should be part of Suhoor because they help sustain energy during the day.
- Drinking water:
Hydrating during both meals prevents dehydration throughout the fast.
Following these practices, Muslims ensure that their Iftar and Suhoor are balanced, healthy, and aligned with the Sunnah, maximizing Ramadan's spiritual and physical benefits.
Conclusion
Ramadan has many spiritual and physical benefits. Iftar is about feeling grateful and nourished, and Suhoor is about replenishing energy before starting a new day. By following Sunnah and keeping a balanced diet, you can take advantage of the blessings associated with fasting. May Allah (SWT) bless your Ramadan with spiritual growth and inner contentment.
FAQ: What Do Muslims Eat During Ramadan?
According to the religious rule, Muslims must abstain from haram foods throughout the entire Ramadan fasting season. Iftar usually includes dates, soups, samosas, and juices. Suhoor consists mainly of oatmeal, bread, eggs, and yogurt. Different regions have their own special dishes for Iftar and Suhoor.
For iftar, people in the UAE eat Harees, while in South Asia, Pakoras are common. In Morocco, Harira is a popular dish. In the USA, instant noodles, chicken nuggets, and ordering from restaurants are popular. The Iftaar meal and Suhoor provide nourishment with faith, regardless of your location.