
Sunnah Related to Suhoor and Iftar
When fasting, whether during Ramadan or voluntary fasts, it is recommended to follow certain Sunnah practices that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) observed. These etiquettes enhance the fast and multiply its reward:
- Eating Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal):
It is recommended to have suhoor because it brings blessings. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Eat suhoor, for in suhoor there is blessing” (Sunan al-Nasa’i, Hadith 2164). The best foods for suhoor are dates and water, following the practice of the Prophet (PBUH). - Delaying Suhoor Until Close to Fajr:
It is Sunnah to delay suhoor until just before the Fajr prayer. The Prophet (PBUH) instructed his companions to eat until they heard the Adhan of Ibn Umm Maktum (RA). Delaying suhoor provides strength for fasting and worship. - Hastening Iftar (Breaking the Fast):
It is recommended to break the fast immediately after sunset, even with a small amount. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The people will remain upon goodness as long as they hasten the breaking of the fast” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1098). - Making Du’a at Iftar:
The time of breaking the fast is one of accepted supplications. The Prophet (PBUH) taught, “ذهبَ الظَّمأُ، وابتَلَّت العُروقُ، وثبَتَ الأجرُ إن شاء اللهُ” (The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills) (Sunan Abi Dawood, Hadith 2357). - Using the Miswak:
It is Sunnah to use the miswak throughout the fasting day to cleanse the mouth and freshen the breath. - Breaking the Fast with Dates or Water:
The preferred method of breaking the fast is with fresh dates. If unavailable, dried dates are recommended, and if dates are not available, water is preferred.
Sunnah Related to the Character of the Fasting Person
Fasting is not merely abstaining from food and drink but is intended to purify the soul and enhance character. A fasting person should adhere to the following manners:
- Avoid False Speech and Actions: The Prophet (PBUH) warned, “Whoever does not give up false speech and evil deeds, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 1903).
- Guard the Tongue: Avoid vain talk, gossip, and foul language, as these can ruin the fast.
- Refrain from Backbiting and Bearing False Witness: Speaking ill of others and dishonesty invalidate the spiritual essence of fasting.
- Respond to Insults with Restraint: If someone insults a fasting person, they should say, “اللهمّ إنّي صائم” (O Allah, I am fasting) (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 1904).
Sunnah Related to Worship for the Fasting Person
Fasting provides an opportunity for increased worship and nearness to Allah, especially in Ramadan. Recommended acts of worship include:
- Reciting and Studying the Quran: The month of Ramadan is known as the month of the Quran. Strive to complete its recitation at least once.
- Night Prayers (Taraweeh): The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever stands (in prayer) during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward will have his past sins forgiven” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 37).
- Itikaf (Spiritual Retreat): Observing itikaf in the last ten nights of Ramadan was a practice of the Prophet (PBUH).
- Providing Iftar to Others: Feeding a fasting person earns a reward equal to that of the one fasting without diminishing the latter’s reward.
- Increased Charity and Generosity: Follow the example of the Prophet (PBUH), who was most generous during Ramadan.
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