As we have fasted Ramadan Day 7, and look forward to making it Ramadan number 8 in a few hours time today when we break the fast, #RamadanDailyDigest opines that a large number of believers have adjusted to the rhythm of fasting. Now comes one of the most beautiful and spiritually rewarding moments of the day: iftar, the breaking of the fast.
Iftar is not just about eating after a long day. It is an act of worship. It is gratitude in action. It is a revival of Sunnah. By following the example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Muslims turn a daily meal into a source of immense reward.
Let us explore the Sunnahs of iftar, authentic hadith, and the proper etiquette of breaking the fast.
1. Hastening to Break the Fast
One of the most emphasised Sunnahs is to break the fast immediately at sunset.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The people will continue to be upon goodness as long as they hasten to break the fast.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
READ THIS TOO: #RamadanDailyDigest: Fasting Beyond Hunger - The Qur’anic Lessons of Patience (Ramadan Day 6)
This hadith highlights an important principle, that is Islam encourages balance and mercy. Once the sun sets, there is no virtue in delaying iftar. Promptness reflects obedience to Allah’s command.
In today’s world, some may delay iftar for preparation or conversation. However, the Sunnah teaches that once Maghrib enters, breaking the fast should not be postponed unnecessarily.
2. Breaking the Fast with Dates
The Prophet ﷺ had a simple yet powerful practice when breaking his fast.
Anas ibn Malik (RA) reported:
“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ would break his fast with fresh dates before praying. If there were no fresh dates, then dry dates. If there were no dates, he would take a few sips of water.” (Abu Dawud graded this Hadith authentic)
This Sunnah carries both spiritual and health wisdom.
Why Dates?
Modern nutrition confirms that Dates:
* Provide natural sugars for quick energy
* Contain fibre to support digestion
* Restore blood sugar gently after fasting
Therefore, the Sunnah aligns perfectly with wellness science.
If Dates are not available, water alone fulfills the Sunnah.
3. Making Du’a at Iftar
Iftar is one of the most powerful moments for accepted supplication.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Indeed, the fasting person has a supplication at the time of breaking the fast that is not rejected.” (Ibn Majah graded the Hadith authentic)
READ THIS TOO: #RamadanDailyDigest: Healthy Suhoor Habits - Sunnah & Nutrition Tips (Ramadan Day 5)
Before taking the first bite, pause and raise your hands.
The Prophet ﷺ would say:
“Dhahaba adh-dhama’, wabtallatil-‘urooq, wa thabatal-ajru in sha Allah.”
(“The thirst has gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.”)
Abu Dawud graded the above Hadith authentic.
This Du’a reflects gratitude and recognition that reward comes from Allah alone.
Ramadan Day 7 is the perfect time to build the habit of making sincere Du’a daily at iftar.
4. Beginning with Bismillah and Gratitude
The etiquette of eating in Islam applies at iftar as well:
* Say “Bismillah” before eating.
* Eat with your right hand.
* Eat from what is nearest to you.
Allah says in the Qur'an (7:31):
“Eat and drink, but do not be excessive. Indeed, He does not like those who commit excess.”
Overeating at iftar contradicts the purpose of fasting. Ramadan trains discipline, and not indulgence.
5. Pray Maghrib Before the Main Meal
The Prophet ﷺ would break his fast with dates or water and then proceed to pray Maghrib before eating a full meal.
This practice ensures that worship remains central, not secondary.
It also prevents overeating and allows digestion to begin gently.
A practical Sunnah-inspired sequence:
* Break your fast with Dates, or, and water.
* Make Du’a.
* Pray Maghrib.
* Return to eat moderately.
6. Feeding Others at Iftar
One of the greatest rewards connected to iftar is feeding others.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever provides food for a fasting person to break his fast will have a reward like theirs, without reducing their reward in the slightest.” (Tirmidhi graded the Hadith authentic)
This Hadith transforms iftar into an opportunity for charity and community building. Whether it is hosting family, giving food to neighbours, or donating to iftar programs, sharing multiplies blessings.
7. Spiritual Reflection on Iftar
The moment of iftar symbolises more than relief from hunger. It reminds us:
* Of Allah’s mercy.
* Of the blessings we often take for granted.
* Of those who go hungry daily without choice.
* Gratitude deepens faith.
* Each sip of water becomes a reminder of Allah’s provision.
* Each bite becomes an act of worship.
Common Mistakes to Avoid at Iftar
1. Delaying iftar without reason.
2. Overeating to the point of discomfort.
3. Wasting food.
4. Turning iftar into a social event without remembrance of Allah.
5. Missing Maghrib prayer due to distractions.
Following the Sunnah ensures spiritual focus remains intact.
Ramadan Day 7 Action Plan are highlighted. As you approach iftar today:
* Break your fast immediately at sunset.
* Use dates or water, following the Sunnah.
* Make heartfelt Du’a before eating.
* Pray Maghrib before a full meal.
* Eat moderately and avoid excess.
* Share food with others for multiplied reward.
Reviving the Sunnah at Every Sunset
Iftar is not simply the end of hunger, but the completion of a daily act of devotion.
By following the example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, every sunset in Ramadan becomes:
* A moment of gratitude.
* A doorway for accepted Du’a.
* A renewal of Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ, tradition.
* A source of multiplied reward.
Although Ramadan Day 7 is gone, we should still let our iftar reflect the Sunnah of the holy month of Ramadan. That is, simple, sincere, and spiritually uplifting of our souls to seek Allah's favours. Because when we follow the Prophet’s ﷺ example, even eating becomes an act of worship.
#RamadanDailyDigest is an exclusive content written by Oladele Hakeem Olaniyan and published by Naijaloveinfo during the month of Ramadan.
Comments
Post a Comment