Significance of Ramadan & Iftar Dua in Islam

 

Ramadan the blessed month arrives every year and Muslims are eagerly waiting for it as well because of the spiritual, mental and physical benefits that it holds. One of the many things that create zeal among the Muslims is the time of iftaar when a person breaks a fast.

Hadith about Ramadan:

It was narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said: “There are three whose supplication is not rejected: The fasting person when he breaks his fast, the just leader, and the supplication of the oppressed person; Allah raises it up above the clouds and opens the gates of heaven to it. And the Lord says: ‘By My might, I shall surely aid you, even if it should be after a while.’” [Jami` at-Tirmidhi]

Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, the five (daily) prayers, and from one Friday prayer to the next, and from Ramadan to Ramadan are expiation for sins committed in between provided one stays away from the major sins. (Al-Bukhari)

Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, and then all his past sins will be forgiven. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

 

Iftaar Traditions:

Apart from anything that creates an enthusiasm during this Holy month, iftaar holds a special place because of the traditions that have been followed for many years. Since Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, he eagerly waits to break the fast; not for the sake of quenching his thirst or satisfying his hunger but for enjoying the ravishing dishes that are cooked upon the time.

Following the Sunnah, the traditional way of breaking the fast is to have a date followed by small bites of other food. It is to avoid sudden intake of the items, which would disturb the metabolism. After the prayer of Maghrib is offered, people sit together to enjoy the food again.

Dua for Iftar - Breaking Your Fast:

The prayer of iftar is narrated to be one of the many prayers that Allah hears instantly. As the Iftar dua (breaking the fast) itself translates:

“O Allah! I fasted for You, and I Believe in You, and I break my fast with Your Sustenance.”

It shows that a person is close to his creator and has ample belief in his existence, so much that he is willing to fast almost the entire day. This sense of fasting for Almighty one strengthens the faith, which is why every Muslim prays even at the time of iftar to ensure that Allah hears his supplications.

Brotherhood:

One of the many things that Ramadan and iftar teach is brotherhood. Not only that the Muslims enjoy rich foods but also prepare meal trays for the poor near them. In addition, people also send iftar dishes to mosques and each other homes, which creates a sense of unity and care among them.