Iftar refers to the evening meal Muslims eat to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
What it is:
- The fast-breaking meal after sunset during Ramadan.
- A time to gather with family and community to celebrate and reflect.
Significance:
- Marks the end of a day’s fast.
- A time for spiritual reflection and gratitude.
- Often a community event where people share food and fellowship.
Traditions:
- Traditionally, dates are eaten first, following the practice of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Iftar meals can vary depending on culture, but often feature sweet and savory dishes.
- Many mosques or community centers host large Iftar gatherings.
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Equivalent Reward: Hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) mention that whoever provides Iftar to a fasting person will receive a reward equal to the reward of the fasting person, without it diminishing their own reward in any way. (Sahih al-Bukhari)
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Forgiveness of Sins: Ramadan is a time for seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah. Providing Iftar is seen as a particularly virtuous act that can contribute to forgiveness of your sins. (Muslim Hands UK)
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Multiplied Reward: Some scholars suggest that providing Iftar can multiply your own reward for fasting (Dawateislami.net).
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Community and Connection: Sharing Iftar fosters a sense of community and allows you to connect with others over a shared act of faith and generosity.
- The act of giving doesn’t have to be elaborate. Even a simple date or a plate of food can be a meaningful contribution.
- The reward applies to anyone who contributes. This includes those who prepare the food, help distribute it, or donate towards providing Iftar meals.
- Giving Iftar to those in need is especially encouraged, as it allows you to help others fulfill their religious obligations while also receiving blessings yourself.
Dua to Iftar:
Arabic:
ذهب الظما، وابتلت العروق، وثبت الأجر إن شاء الله
Transliteration:
Dhahaba al-zama’ wa abtalat al-‘urooq wa thabat al-ajr insha’Allah
English Translation:
Thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is assured, if Allah wills.