Aftari: The Blessed Moment of Breaking Fast in Ramzan
Aftari: The Blessed Moment of Breaking Fast in Ramzan
Introduction to Aftari
Aftari (Iftar) is the moment when Muslims break their fast at sunset during the holy month of Ramzan (Ramadan). It is a highly spiritual and joyous occasion, marking the end of a day of fasting. Muslims worldwide eagerly await the Maghrib Adhan (call to prayer), which signals the time to break their fast, following the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Fasting in Ramzan is a way to attain Taqwa (piety and God-consciousness), and Aftari is a moment of gratitude and celebration. Families, friends, and communities come together to break their fast, strengthening their bonds while seeking Allah’s blessings and mercy.
How to Do Aftari: The Sunnah Way
Aftari is not just about eating; it is an act of worship. Following the teachings of Islam, Muslims break their fast with simplicity, gratitude, and prayer.
1. Breaking the Fast (Iftar) Properly
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged breaking the fast as soon as the sun sets, not delaying it unnecessarily. The recommended Sunnah way of breaking the fast is:
- Begin with dates (preferably an odd number: 1, 3, or 5) and water, as it was the habit of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- If dates are unavailable, one may break the fast with water, fresh fruits, or milk.
- After consuming a few dates or water, Muslims recite the Dua of Iftar before eating other food.
2. Dua for Breaking the Fast (Iftar Dua)
Before breaking the fast, Muslims recite the following dua:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ أَفْطَرْتُ
"Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu wa ‘ala rizq-ika-aftartu."
Reciting this dua reminds Muslims that fasting is not just about avoiding food but about spiritual devotion and submission to Allah.
How to Sit During Aftari: The Etiquette of Iftar
The way one sits and behaves during Iftar reflects humility and gratitude. The following etiquettes are encouraged:
- Sitting in a humble manner (preferably on the floor with legs folded or kneeling).
- Being in a state of wudu (ablution) before Iftar.
- Making dua before and after eating, seeking forgiveness and blessings.
- Sharing food with others, as generosity is highly rewarded in Islam.
- Avoiding wastefulness; eating in moderation, as Islam discourages overeating.
Essential Foods During Ramzan
During Ramzan, the body needs nutritious food to sustain fasting from Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) to Iftar (sunset meal). The following foods are beneficial:
1. Sunnah Foods for Iftar
- Dates – Rich in energy and easy to digest, dates help restore blood sugar levels quickly.
- Water – Essential for rehydration after a long day of fasting.
- Milk – Provides essential nutrients and is easy on the stomach.
2. Nutritious Foods for Energy
- Fruits – Bananas, oranges, apples, watermelon, and pomegranates provide vitamins and hydration.
- Soups – Lentil, vegetable, or chicken soup helps in digestion.
- Rice and Whole Grains – Provide long-lasting energy and fiber.
- Meat and Proteins – Chicken, fish, lentils, and eggs help in muscle recovery.
- Nuts and Dry Fruits – Almonds, walnuts, and figs give strength and healthy fats.
3. Traditional Iftar Foods Around the World
Each country has its special Iftar dishes:
- India/Pakistan: Samosas, pakoras, fruit chaat, and rooh afza (refreshing drink).
- Middle East: Dates, laban (buttermilk), hummus, kebabs, and Arabic sweets like qatayef.
- Turkey: Pide bread, lentil soup, and baklava.
- Indonesia: Kolak (banana and coconut dessert) and gorengan (fried snacks).
- Morocco: Harira soup, dates, and chebakia (sesame cookies).
How People Gather for Aftari
Ramzan is a time of community, and Aftari is often a social event:
1. Family Gatherings
- Families prepare Iftar meals together.
- Elders lead dua before breaking the fast.
- The meal is enjoyed in a peaceful, loving atmosphere.
2. Community Iftars
- Mosques and Islamic centers organize mass Iftars for people.
- Many wealthy individuals sponsor Iftar meals for the poor.
- Volunteers distribute free food on streets to ensure no one goes hungry.
3. Corporate and Social Iftars
- Offices and businesses arrange Iftar for employees.
- Friends and neighbors gather to break their fast together.
4. Charity and Sharing
- In many Muslim-majority countries, free Iftar meals are served in mosques.
- People donate food to those in need, fulfilling the spirit of giving (sadaqah and zakat).
How Aftari is Done Across the World
Aftari traditions vary globally but share the same spiritual significance.
1. Middle East
- In Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt, Iftar begins with dates and laban (buttermilk), followed by meat and rice dishes.
- In mosques, free Iftar is provided to all.
2. South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh)
- People break their fast with dates, fruit chaat, and deep-fried snacks like samosas and pakoras.
- Street vendors sell refreshing drinks like Rooh Afza and falooda.
3. Turkey
- Families break the fast with pide bread, olives, cheese, and dates, followed by a full meal.
- Large community Iftars are organized in mosques and public squares.
4. Indonesia and Malaysia
- Iftar includes sweet banana-based desserts, fried tofu, and coconut-based drinks.
- Large gatherings in mosques and community halls are common.
5. Western Countries (USA, UK, Europe)
- Muslims break their fast at mosques, homes, and Islamic centers.
- Local businesses and non-Muslims often join Iftar gatherings to promote interfaith unity.
Aftari – A Time of Blessings and Togetherness
Aftari is more than just a meal—it is a moment of spiritual reflection, gratitude, and unity. It brings families, friends, and communities together in worship and generosity. Whether at home, in a mosque, or at a community event, the essence of Iftar remains the same: seeking Allah’s mercy and sharing His blessings with others.
May Allah accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds in this blessed month and grant us strength, patience, and peace. Ameen.
Comments
Post a Comment