Break your Fast with Dates during Ramadan

The date palm, which is mentioned more than any other fruit bearing plant in the Koran, is a symbol often associated with Islam and Muslims. Throughout the month of Ramadan, dates are a common ingredient in the Muslim diet. In a hadith narrated by at Tirmidhi, al Nasa'i, Ahmad and Abu Dawud the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Break your fast by eating dates (as therein is barakah). If you do not have them, break the fast with water, as it is purifying.”

It is best to break fast with fresh dates followed by dried dates, followed by Zamzam water, then ordinary water, then figs, raisins, other fruits or sweets.

According to “Sharh al Mafrooz” breaking fast with milk is preferable to honey (p.211). It is best is to take three or any other odd number of dates; however, Sunna is considered fulfilled, if one or two dates are eaten.

Bujairimi states that breaking fast with dates strengthens the stomach. If the stomach is empty, dates replace other food and are also good antioxidants for a full stomach. According to Ibn Hajar, it is better to break fast on time with water rather than late with dates.

Amir Ibn Sad narrated that the Allah’s Apostle said, “He who eats seven Ajwa dates every morning, will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them.” Ahmad (1/181), Bukhari (5445), Muslim (2047), Abu Dawud (3876).

1. Dates as a source for the treatment of diseases

Many researchers indicate that dates may help in the treatment of many illnesses such as intestinal disorders and atherosclerosis. They say that dates contain many minerals and vitamins that affect the mechanism of the brain and may thus contribute to psychological stability. This means that eating dates on a daily basis can help our mental stability. Almighty Allah speaks about this fruit when He tells us the story of Maryam, “And shake towards you the trunk of the palm tree; it will drop upon you ripe, fresh dates. So eat and drink and be contented.” (Sura Maryam, ayat 25-26).

2. Dates for the management of overweight

Studies have indicated that eating dates regularly on a daily basis helps the brain regulate the production of hormones and make a person feels satisfied. This accordingly decreases the amount of food one eats.

Therefore, dates are used to manage overweight and prevent excessive weight gain. Scientists consider dates to be one of the best foods to treat obesity.

3. Dates as a remedy for many illnesses

Scientists have indicated that dates are an ideal remedy for more than hundred complaints, among which are intestinal disorders dates help the intestine function effectively.

The richness of dates in vitamins, minerals and electrolytes helps the brain in its functions and fills deficiencies of these minerals and vitamins in the body which in turn promotes psychological stability. This means that eating dates regularly should have a positive influence on emotional and psychological states.

Here we say all praises to Allah who has granted us this miracle food as he stated in the Holy Koran, “And We placed therein gardens of palm trees and grapevines and caused to burst there forth some springs - that they may eat of His fruit. And their hands have not produced it, so will they not be grateful?” (Sura Yasin, ayat 34-35).

AS-SALAM NEWASPAPER STAFF