Iftar

Iftar

Iftar is observed during the holy month of Ramadan. It is one of the oldest rituals followed by Muslims all over the world. Ramadan occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar during which the whole Islamic community observe a complete fast during the daytime hours.

Muslims take a meal before dawn and only end their fast in the evening with a special meal. This special evening meal is known as Iftar and is taken after the sun sets. The timings of Iftar vary according to when the sun goes down in any given area.

Every Muslim should observe certain principles when he or she is going to break the fast:

Iftar should be immediately taken after the sun sets.

The Iftar breaking of the fast should be commenced with dates, if available. If they are not available, it should start with a sip of milk or water.

In the case of cloudy skies, Iftar should be delayed until the time of sunset is confirmed.

It is considered Makruh (disliked) if Iftar is delayed after sunset or taken before the sunset, as its time is considered to be very auspicious.

Iftar generally starts with Dua (prayer). It is a common belief that Dua made during Iftar are readily accepted. The regular Dua or prayer offered in every Muslim household during Iftar is: “Allahumma Inni laka sumtu wa bika amantu [wa alayka tawakkaltu] wa ‘ala rizqika aftartu” which in English means “O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance”.

MUHAMMAD YUSUF