Iftar
Definition
Iftar refers to the meal consumed after sunset to break the daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan in Islam. It also denotes the breaking of the Ramadan fast at the first sighting of the new moon on the evening of Eid al-Fitr.
Etymology
The term Iftar (Arabic: إفطار, Turkish: iftar) is derived from the root “ف ط ر” (f-t-r), which means to break or to open. It literally translates to “break fast” or “break one’s fast.”
Significance in Islam
Iftar holds significant religious, cultural, and social importance in the Islamic tradition. It marks the conclusion of the daily fast (sawm) kept from dawn (fajr) until sunset (maghrib) during the holy month of Ramadan, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
The Example of the Prophet Muhammad
According to numerous Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), it is recommended to break the fast with dates or water. This is based on the tradition that the Prophet Muhammad would break his fast with a few dates and water before performing the Maghrib prayer. If dates are not available, water or something else to drink can be used.
Rituals and Practices
- Breaking the Fast: Iftar begins with the call to the Maghrib prayer. Muslims usually start with dates and water, following the Prophetic tradition, before proceeding to a fuller meal which varies based on regional cuisines.
- Community: Iftar is often a communal event, encouraging Muslims to gather together with family, friends, or in the mosque to break their fast.
- Charity: Feeding those who are fasting, especially the poor and needy, is highly encouraged and is seen as an act of charity (sadaqah) and community solidarity.
Cultural Variations
While the basics of Iftar remain the same across different Muslim cultures, specific foods and customs can vary widely:
- Middle East/North Africa: Dates, water, lentil soups, and specific regional dishes such as harira in Morocco or sambousas in the Arabian Peninsula.
- South Asia: Fruits, pakoras, samosas, and traditional sherbets.
- Turkey: Fresh bread, olives, cheese, soup, börek, and güllaç, a traditional dessert.
Books for Further Study
- “In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of Muhammad” by Tariq Ramadan
- “The Myths of Ramadan” by Heather Filley
- “Islamic practices: A Review of the Basic Traditions in Islam” by Mahmood Riaz
Takeaways
- Iftar is a time for reflection, gratitude, and community bonding.
- It is a significant part of the spiritual and social experiences during Ramadan.
- Inviting others for Iftar is considered a virtuous act in Islam.
Conclusion
Iftar is much more than just breaking the fast; it’s a daily reunion with spiritual significance during the holy month of Ramadan, promoting thankfulness, charity, and unity. It connects Muslims globally through shared rituals and traditions rooted deeply in the history of Islamic practice.
For Muslims around the world, Iftar serves as a moment to reflect upon the blessings received, fostering a sense of community and adherence to the religious practices as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad.
