How Long Muslims Fast For Ramadan Around The World | The Huffington Post How Long Muslims Fast For Ramadan Around The World 06/27/2014 02:03 pm ET | Updated Jul 04, 2014 7.5k Yasmine Hafiz Associate Editor, Huffington Post Religion The holy month of fasting is a challenge for everyone observing Ramadan , but some Muslims have it harder than others. People fasting typically wake up before the dawn prayer, Fajr, to eat the meal that will have to hold them over for the whole day. They abstain from all food and drink during the daylight hours, breaking the fast after the sun has set and the call to Maghrib prayer has gone out. Twitter has made it easier to find out the exact timings of the beginning and end of the fast each day, which vary according to date and geographical location. By tweeting @AlArabiya with the hashtag #iftar and a hashtagged city, users will receive a reply with the time the fast will end.

HuffPost Religion has created an infographic to show how long the fast will last in cities around the world, by calculating the time between Fajr and Maghrib on the first day of fasting. Check it out below: Graphic by Alissa Scheller for The Huffington Post. 07/28/2014 10:12 AM EDT Eid Mubarak! Eid al-Fitr is a day of great merriment and thanksgiving. Muslims celebrate by gathering with friends and family, preparing sweet delicacies, wearing new clothes, giving each other gifts and putting up lights and other decorations in their homes. A common greeting during this holiday is Eid Mubarak, which means, “Have a blessed Eid!” See photos of the holiday here: 07/28/2014 10:09 AM EDT A Final Ramadan Reflection: Look Inside Your Heart We have a commitment to each other in our shared humanity to be our very best on this day and every tomorrow that we are blessed to see. Don't be selfish and keep yourself from being surrounded by selfish people.

The mindless consumption that renders a short-lived complacency from a simple a satiation of our stomachs should no longer be our pursuit. Instead elevate yourself to your highest station, free of any of fear of reaching your potential, and pursue real contentment by satisfying your soul through a nourishment that sees beyond the acquisition of things worldly. Do it so that the world will be better, even if it's just the world of those who are blessed to meet you. Where they might end up will be totally different because of how you impacted their life. 07/24/2014 3:02 PM EDT The Last Few Days Of Ramadan Last days of #Ramadan : reflect on what spiritual routines you can commit to realistically sustaining beyond this month. — Nafeesa Suleiman (@Feena94) July 24, 2014 07/24/2014 12:54 PM EDT Ramadan Reflection Day #25: Yesterday I Met One of the Children of Gaza As I am sure was the case with most of you, the last couple of weeks for me have been a roller coaster of emotions.

The social media waves bombarding their respective networks with tweets and statuses filled with the faces of young, innocent Palestinian babies killed for no justifiable reason and the annoyance of those seeking still for some reason to justify it nonetheless has been more than intense. Our eyes have seen homes blown apart, people's faces fall as their lives shatter in front of them, the dirty realities of politics and the superficiality of some relationships. These images have hit us all hard, even those who knew better from before hand. How could one not be disturbed at such utter disregard for life? 07/23/2014 12:36 PM EDT Kid's Adorable Note Shows The True Meaning Of Ramadan A Reddit user found a note outside his university which shows the real meaning of the holy month of Ramadan . It was shared with the explanation , "Kid's note about Ramadan - found outside my uni. I am not Muslim but this made my day." 07/23/2014 9:55 AM EDT Learning The Art Of Fasting As I was sitting under an old Oak tree in Harvard Yard reading, the midday heat slowly crept up on me.

I paused, put down my book, and observed the sunlight filtering through the green branches, causing tiny beads of sweat to form on my forehead. Coming from Europe, I had yet to get adjusted, not only to the intense heat, but also to the high demands of my educational endeavors, and life in the United States as a whole. In addition, having just recently embraced Islam as my religion of choice, I was still in the process of exploring my new faith. The summer semester was soon to begin, and so was my first Ramadan. It was hot – too hot – and I couldn’t imagine fasting for over 16 hours each day, while at the same time taking classes, conducting research and studying for exams. I was about to give up before I even started. Picking up my book once again, I sifted through pages of poetry, and found some well needed inspiration: "Stop eating bread. The sweet fast is here! You learned the art of eating. Now learn the art of fasting!" Rumi’s call resonated. I too wanted to learn the art of fasting. Despite my concerns – and despite the heat – I was eager to find out the purpose and deeper meaning of Ramadan.

For many new Muslims, learning how to fast can be as rewarding as it is challenging. The process not only involves a change in eating and sleeping patterns, but also the acquisition of important religious practices, such as the nightly Taraweeh prayers. Perhaps the most valuable gift during this learning experience is the spiritual aspect of fasting, which involves establishing a connection with your inner self and the Devine. Despite the benefits however, fasting can be difficult, particularly for new Muslims whose bodies are not used to abstaining from food and water. Therefore, it is crucial to seek encouragement, support and guidance. Luckily, I was surrounded by a vibrant Muslim community whose positive attitudes and uplifting spirits made fasting so much easier and enjoyable. I also signed up for a number of programs at local mosques, tailored specifically for converts. These programs ranged from classes regarding the basics of Islam, to monthly converTsations and iftar dinners for new Muslims and friends. Harnessing the power of social networks has also helped me to connect with and learn from likeminded individuals. Making use of these opportunities not only facilitated fasting, but also helped me to form enduring friendships, deepen my knowledge about Islam, and gain confidence as a new Muslim.

Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the United States and around the world. Nearly a quarter of the estimated six million American Muslims are converts, coming from diverse cultural backgrounds and ethnicities. It is therefore crucial to accommodate the needs of converts – not only during Ramadan but throughout the year – in order to facilitate the learning process and to support new Muslims in their quest for knowledge, meaning and purpose. Thinking back, sitting and sweating under the old Oak in Harvard Yard, exited and anxious, inspired by Rumi to learn the art of fasting. I am now wondering, what did it teach me? Fasting cultivates within me – within us – important values. It teaches empathy towards the poor and the needy. It provides space for community and friendship. It teaches patience, gratitude and perseverance. Fasting empties our stomachs, yet nourishes our souls. Michelle Bangert studies International Relations at Harvard University’s Division for Continuing Education, specializing in Middle Eastern Affairs. She is an avid believer in the power of storytelling. Follow her on Twitter at @michellebjj 07/23/2014 9:51 AM EDT Ramadan For All How do you activate a street? Set up a table and invite people to eat there.

#Ramadan #Istanbul pic.twitter.com/vXBamLlbjX — Mike Lydon (@MikeLydon) July 23, 2014 07/21/2014 12:31 PM EDT See How Families Around The World Break Their Fasts This combination of two photos taken on Thursday, July 3, 2014, shows an Iranian Muslim family waiting to break their fast, top, and their meal, bottom, during the holy month of Ramadan in Tehran, Iran. After a long day of fasting, the moment of pay-off finally comes in the form of âiftarâ, the evening meal that breaks the fast. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi) Imam Khalid Latif's 2014 Ramadan Reflections 07/16/2014 1:06 PM EDT There Is Power In This What happens when a billion people decide to collectively starve together? RAMADAN! The feelings of Ramadan are ones that Muslims know too well. It’s the most wonderful time of the year—so wonderful that it makes Christmas seem lame.

There’s an air, a spiritual high of sorts—and once a year, the Muslim world gets a taste of what it’s like to embrace Islam in its true glory. Mixed with our bad breath is a wonderful sense of brotherhood, sisterhood, and community. We struggle together to refrain from food, and come together as a community almost every day- realizing once again why we like being Muslim. The struggle is there, but success is sweet, and it can be- dare we say it- fun! We taste the unity, the sense of community and the beauty that can ensue when an ummah comes together in submission to the Almighty. We eagerly spend in the name of God, we work together, have dinners together, and we pray together . We give much in charity and we empathize with our brothers and sisters suffering around the world. We remember their plight and feel their pain. Some of us may even live in the mosque. We do all of this while we struggle to survive without food and water in the summer’s heat for 18 hours. For a month, we have the type of community that God envisioned for us to have throughout the entire year. We forsake the world for loftier goals, and we take pleasure in our worship.

We take control of our own destinies, and become free in the way that God intended: submitting to Him entirely, free of any other attachment. The beauty that we see in Ramadan is the result of a funky social experiment. This is what happens when people voluntarily starve together. It’s not only beautiful, it’s a powerful idea. As Tariq Ramadan said: “Muslims, through this month of fasting are resisting: [showing] that they are against this order of profit and consumption." And, it’s true. There is nothing except for Allah SWT that can control us—there is nothing that we will not forsake in submission to Him. We will not bow to any system of power and greed. Materialism and satiation cannot control us—we control it. We are the epitome of self-control. We will resist and stay away from our most basic needs in submission to our Lord, and we will be united and composed even when ravenously hungry. Struggling together creates an unbreakable bond between us. In more revolutionary terms: There’s nothing they can do to stop us.

Israel may wonder why starving Palestinians into submission to their internationally illegal occupation isn’t working, but to those who have seen Ramadan at work, it’s not that weird. We will surely test you with a measure of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth, lives, and fruits; and give good news to the patient—those who, when an affliction visits them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah and to Him do we indeed return. [The Qur’an, 2:155-6] Threatening us with starvation [or anything else] will not work in coercing us to submit to oppression. The truth of the matter is that we will voluntarily starve in submission to our Lord, in our journey for the truth. We will let go of our most basic needs in submission to God, and we cannot be tempted by desires or needs: we are headstrong. There is power in this-- hold it.

-Fatimah Amirali Ramadan, How Muslims fast in Ramadan fasting The Ramadan Guide Below will explain what Ramadan is, how to fast in Ramadan, who can fast, who is exempt from fasting, medical and health advice and all the rules of fasting and what other things to to do and not to do in Ramadan The Month of Ramadan The month of Ramadan is a great month. It is the month in which Allah revealed the Quran as a guidance for the whole of mankind. It is the month in which Allah gave the Muslims victory in their first and greatest battle at Badr. It is the month which has Laylat al-Qadr, a night which is better than a thousand months. In Ramadan the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are shut, and the shayaateen (devils) are tied up and the reward for good deeds, acts of charity and acts of worship are multiplied in this month.

Ibn Khuzaymah (1986) and Ibn Hibbaan (7491) narrated that Abu Umaamah al-Baahili (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “Whilst I was sleeping, two men came to me and took hold of my upper arm, and brought me to a rugged mountain. They said: ‘Climb up.’ I said: ‘I cannot do it.’ They said: ‘We will make it easy for you.’ So I climbed up until I was at the top of the mountain. There I heard loud voices. I said: ‘What are these voices?’ They said: ‘This is the screaming of the people of Hell.’ Then I was taken and I saw people suspended by their ankles, with the corners of their mouths torn and pouring with blood. I said: ‘Who are these?’ They said: ‘These are the people who broke their fast before it was time to do so.’” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Mawaarid al-Zam’aan, 1509.

Allah says "The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Sawm (fasts) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Sawm (fasts) must be made up] from other days. Allaah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allaah [i.e.

to say Takbeer (Allaahu Akbar: Allaah is the Most Great)] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him” [al-Baqarah 2:185] It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) ascended the minbar and said: “Ameen, ameen, ameen.” It was said: ‘O Messenger of Allaah, you ascended the minbar and said, ‘Ameen, ameen, ameen.” He said: “Jibreel (peace be upon him) came to me and said: ‘If Ramadaan comes and a person is not forgiven, he will enter Hell and Allaah will cast him far away. Say Ameen.’ So I said Ameen. He said: ‘O Muhammad, if both or one of a person’s parents are alive and he does not honour them and he dies, he will enter Hell and Allaah will cast him far away. Say Ameen.’ So I said Ameen.

He said: ‘If you are mentioned in a person’s presence and he does not send blessings upon you and he dies, he will enter Hell and Allaah will cast him far away. Say Ameen.’ So I said Ameen.” Narrated by Ibn Hibbaan, 3/188; classed as saheeh by al-Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1679 Fasting In Ramadan Allah has made fasting the month of Ramadan obligatory upon every adult, sane, settled (i.e., not travelling) Muslim who is able to fast and has nothing such as hayd [menstruation] or nifaas [postnatal bleeding] to prevent him or her from doing so.

Ibn Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Islam is built on five (pillars): the testimony that there is no god but Allaah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah; establishing prayer; paying zakaah; Hajj; and fasting Ramadaan.” (Al-Bukhaari and Muslim) SOME HEALTH GUIDELINES FOR RAMADAN Definition of Fasting Fasting means abstaining from several things, from just before the starting of dawn (i.e. just before the start of Fajr) until sunset, with the intention of fasting. A Muslim fasting must abstain from the following Food and Drink masturbation (most scholars say this not allowed even when not fasting) deliberately causing one's self to vomit If these four things listed above are done deliberately a persons fast will be broken. Who Must Fast? Allah has made fasting the month of Ramadan obligatory upon every adult, sane, settled (i.e., not travelling) Muslim who is able to fast and has nothing (such as hayd [menstruation] or nifaas [postnatal bleeding] ) to prevent him or her from doing so.

SOME HEALTH GUIDELINES FOR RAMADAN Why Do Muslims Fast In Ramadan? Fasting has been enjoined on us so that we may become pious. A pious Muslim and Muslimah does whatever Allah and His Messenger have told them to do. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): "O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)? [al-Baqarah 2:183] And Allah says in a hadeeth qudsi: Fasting is for Me and I will reward for it. He gives up his desire and his food and drink for My sake." Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 7492; Muslim, 1151. The purpose of fasting is not to just get hungry and thirsty but it is to develop Taqwa ( piety).

Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Fasting is not just (abstention) from food and drink, rather fasting is (abstention) from idle and obscene talk.” Narrated by al-Haakim and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (5376). Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Whoever does not give up false speech and false actions and ignorance, Allah has no need of his giving up his food and drink." Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6057.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There may be people who fast and get nothing from their fast except hunger, and there may be those who pray qiyaam and get nothing from their qiyaam but a sleepless night.” Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 1690; classed as saheeh by Ibn Hibbaan, 8/257, and by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 10/83. (similar hadith narrated by Ibn umar in al-Tabaraani in al-Kabeer, 12/382; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb, 1084. So one should stay away from Un-Islamic things such as: Getting angry How to Fast and rulings regarding fasting 1 The Intention It is obligatory for the fasting person to confirm his/her intention before the appearance of fajr.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said "He who does not resolve to fast before it is fajr, then there is no fast for him"(Abu Dawood) Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Whoever does not intend to fast before dawn, there is no fast for him." Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 730. According to a version narrated by al-Nasaa'i (2334): "Whoever does not intend to fast from the night before, there is no fast for him." Classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 573. The place of intention is the heart and to utter it verbally is not established from the Prophet (peace be upon him) or his companions, may Allah be pleased with them. Thus one should make intention in ones heart before going to sleep. 2 The time for beginning and ending the fast. i ) There are two types of fajr: -False fajr and True fajr a) False Fajr, At this time it is unlawful to pray fajr prayer but it is permissible to eat for the one intending to fast.

The false fajr is distinguished by a rising vertical column of whiteness which appears like the tail of a wolf b) True fajr. At this time it is lawful to pray the fajr pray but is it unlawful to eat for one who is fasting. It is distinguished by a white light coming across the horizon in the East , Thus one should stop all eating and drinking before the True fajr. ii) The meal that is taken before the fajr is called Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) We should make sure that we eat and drink something at Suhoor, and that we delay it until just before the adhaan of Fajr.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said "The distinction between our fasting and the fasting of the people of the book is the taking of the pre -dawn meal (Suhoor)" (Muslim) The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: " Have Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing (barakah)." (Reported by al-Bukhaari, Fath, 4/139) "Suhoor is blessed food, and it involves being different from the people of the Book. What a good Suhoor for the believer is dates." (Reported by Abu Dawood, no. 2345; Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/448). He (peace be upon him) also said "The Suhoor is a meal of blessings, so do not leave it, even if one of you takes just a gulp of water, since Allah sends mercy and His angels seek forgiveness for those who take Suhoor" (Ahmad) It is also guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him) to delay the Suhoor meal until just before the true fajr.

(note along with no eating or drinking whilst fasting. one can not have sexual intercourse with spouse. kissing and hugging is allowed but if such close contact causes ejaculation then this will break the fast. Also swallowing some one elses saliva invalidates the fast. 3 The time to breaking the fast (Iftar). This time is as soon as Maghrib Starts (after sun has set). If you are in the Masjid or close by and hear the Athan for Maghrib prayer then it means you can now break your fast. One should hasten to break the fast because the (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "The people will be fine so long as they do not delay iftaar." (Reported by al-Bukhaari, Fath, 4/198). He (peace be upon him) also said "My Ummah will not cease to be upon my Sunnah as long as they do not await the stars when breaking the fast" (Ibn Hibban). So as soon as Maghrib begins (i.e. if you are in the Masjid and Athan is said) one should start to break the fast immediately.

Break the fast in the manner described in the hadeeth narrated by Anas (may Allah be pleased with him): "The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to break his fast with fresh dates before praying; if fresh dates were not available, he would eat (dried) dates; if dried dates were not available, he would have a few sips of water." (Reported by al-Tirmidhi, 3/79 and others. He said it is a ghareeb hasan hadeeth. Classed as saheeh in al-Irwa?, no. 922). Following is dua to recited. Thahaba th-thama o wabtallatil-Aaurooq, wathabatal ajru in shaal-lah (The thirst has gone and the veins are quenched, and reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.) 5 Things that break the fast Prophet's warning for those who break the fast before its time Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “While I was sleeping, two men came to me and took hold of my arms.

They brought me to a steep mountain and said, ‘Climb.’ I said, ‘I am not able to.’ They said, ‘We will make it easy for you.’ So I climbed until I came to the summit of the mountain where I heard terrible cries. I said, ‘What are these cries?’ They said, ‘Those are the cries of the inhabitants of the Fire.’ Then they took me further until I came to a people who were strung up by their hamstrings, and their jawbones were torn and flowing with blood. I said, ‘Who are these people?’ He said, ‘Those are the people who break their fast before the time it was permissible to do so.’” Recorded by ibn Hibban and ibn Khuzaima. According to al-Albani, it is sahih. Al-Albani, Sahih al-Targheeb wa al-Tarheeb, vol. 1, p. 420.

There are certain things that break the fast and some things that do not break the fast Ruling on Swallowing ones own Saliva or wife's Saliva, kissing/hugging wife If a person accidently eats, drinks or swallows anything it does not break his fast and they should continue fasting. Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever forgets he is fasting and eats or drinks, let him complete his fast for it is Allaah Who has fed him and given him to drink.” ( Bukhari and Muslim) If a person becomes ill during his fast or so thirsty or hungry that he could become severely ill or die then he is allowed to break the fast and make it up later. There is no sin on him. However those who deliberately break their fast without any valid excuse they should remember the following hadith.

Abu Umaamah al-Baahili (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “Whilst I was sleeping, two men came to me and took hold of my upper arm, and brought me to a rugged mountain. They said: ‘Climb up.’ I said: ‘I cannot do it.’ They said: ‘We will make it easy for you.’ So I climbed up until I was at the top of the mountain. There I heard loud voices. I said: ‘What are these voices?’ They said: ‘This is the screaming of the people of Hell.’ Then I was taken and I saw people suspended by their ankles, with the corners of their mouths torn and pouring with blood. I said: ‘Who are these?’ They said: ‘These are the people who broke their fast before it was time to do so.’” Narrated by Ibn Khuzaymah (1986) and Ibn Hibbaan (7491) and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Mawaarid al-Zam’aan, 1509.

If a person breaks his fast without a valid excuse by eating or drinking then he should repent sincerely and make up that day after Ramadan but if he/she breaks their fast by having intercourse then he must offer kaffarah (expiation) by fasting two consecutive months or feeding 60 poor people.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: Whilst we were sitting with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), a man came to him and said, “O Messenger of Allaah, I am doomed!” He said, “What happened?” He said, “I had intercourse with my wife when I was fasting [in Ramadan].” The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Are you able to free a slave?” He said, “No.” He said, “Are you able to fast for two consecutive months?” He said, “No.” He said, “Can you feed sixty poor persons?” He said, “No.” Then the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) remained silent for a while, and whilst we were like that, a large vessel of dates was brought to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and he said, “Where is the one who was asking?” He said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take these and give them in charity.” The man said, “Is there anyone more poor than me, O Messenger of Allaah?

For there is no household between the two harrahs (lava fields – i.e., in Madeenah) that is poorer than my household.” The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) smiled until his eyeteeth could be seen, then he said, “Feed it to your family.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1834, 1835; Muslim, 1111) 7 Importance of repenting repenting from sins and seeking forgiveness from Allah for our sins The Prophet (peace be upon him.) said: "He who fasts Ramadan, due to eemaan and hoping for reward (from Allah) then his past sins are forgiven."[al-Bukhari, Muslim] The Angel Jibreel made Dua against the one who does not have his/her sins forgiven in the month of Ramadan and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said Ameen, Ameen, Ameen to Angel Jibreels Dua as mentioned in the following hadith.

It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) ascended the minbar and said: “Ameen, Ameen, Ameen.” It was said to him, “O Messenger of Allaah, why did you do that?” He said, “Jibreel said to me, ‘May Allaah rub his nose in the dust, that person who Ramadaan comes and his sins are not forgiven,’ and I said, ‘Ameen’. Then he said, ‘May Allaah rub his nose in the dust, that person who lives to see his parents grow old, one or both of them, but he does not enter Paradise,’ and I said, ‘Ameen’. Then he said, ‘May Allaah rub his nose in the dust, that person in whose presence you are mentioned and he does not send blessings upon you,’ and I said, ‘Ameen.’” Narrated by Ibn Khuzaymah, 1888; al-Tirmidhi, 3545; Ahmad, 7444; Ibn Hibbaan, 908.

See Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3501 Therefore it is vital for us to stay away from sin, repent sincerely and ask Allah to forgive us of our sins because for sure Allah will answer the dua of Angel Jibreel and his Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). He be exalted, says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say: O ‘Ibaadi (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allaah, verily, Allaah forgives all sins. Truly, He is Oft‑Forgiving, Most Merciful” [al-Zumar 39:53].

It was narrated from Abu Moosa (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Allaah holds out His hand at night to accept the repentance of those who have sinned during the day, and He holds out his hand by day to accept the repentance of those who have sinned at night – until the sun rises from its place of setting.” Narrated by Muslim, 2759 It was reported that Aishah said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, what do you think, if I witness Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say?’ He said: Say, Allaahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibb al-afwa fa'fu 'annii ( O Allaah, You are Forgiving and Generous, and you love forgiveness, so forgive me.) (Narrated by Imaam Ahmad, al-Tirmidhi (3515) and Ibn Maajah (3850). Its isnaad is saheeh).

8 Combining fasting with feeding the poor is one of the means of reaching Paradise Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "In Paradise there are rooms whose outside can be seen from the inside and the inside can be seen from the outside. Allah has prepared them for those who feed the poor, who are gentle in speech, who fast regularly and who pray at night when people are asleep." (Reported by Ahmad 5/343; Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 2137. Al-Albaani said in his footnote, its isnaad is hasan because of other corroborating reports). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Whoever gives food to a fasting person with which to break his fast, will have a reward equal to his, without it detracting in the slightest from the reward of the fasting person." (Reported by al-Tirmidhi, 3/171; Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/451).

Shaykh al-Islam [Ibn Taymiyah] (may Allah have mercy on him) said: "What is meant is that he should feed him until he is satisfied."(Al-Ikhtiyaaraat al-Fiqhiyyah, p. 109). It was narrated that Ibn Abbaas said: "The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was the most generous of people, and he was at his most generous during Ramadan when Jibreel met him. He would meet him each night and revise the Quran with him. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was more generous than the blowing wind. " (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6; Muslim, 2308. ) 10 Fasting rules for women 11 Importance of last 10 Nights of Ramadan Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever stays up and prays on Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Agreed upon).

Whilst seeking Laylat al Qadr Aishah said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, if I know which night is Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say on that night?’ He said, ‘Say: Allaahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibb al-‘afwa fa’affu ‘anni (O Allaah, You are forgiving and You love forgiveness, so forgive me).”(Narrated by Imam Ahmad, al-Tirmidhi (3515) and Ibn Maajah (3850). Its isnaad is saheeh).

Nafil fasts It was narrated that al-Rubayyi’ bint Mu’awwidh said: On the morning of ‘Ashoora’ the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent word to the villages of the Ansaar saying, “Whoever started out not fasting, let him not eat for the rest of the day, and whoever started the day fasting, let him fast.” She said: We used to fast and make our children fast, [and take them to the mosques] and make toys for them out of wool, then if one of them cried for food we would give him that toy until iftaar. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1859; Muslim, 1136 – the words in square brackets were narrated by Muslim. Al-Nawawi said: This hadeeth shows that we should train children to do acts of worship and get them used to that, but they are not accountable. Al-Qaadi said: It was narrated from ‘Urwah that when they are able to fast it becomes obligatory upon them.

This is a mistake which is disproven by the saheeh hadeeth, “The Pen is lifted from three: from the child until he reaches adolescence…” And Allaah knows best. Sharh Muslim, 8/14 Iftar, Iftaar, Iftaree (Fast breaking after sunset during the Islamic month of Ramadan), Dua-e-Iftitaah We are not responsible for the contents of external websites "Ads by Google" IFTAR or IFTAREE (Breaking of Fast during the Islamic month of Ramadan) Iftar, refers to the evening meal for breaking the daily fast during the Islamic month of Ramadan. Or a meal served at the end of the fasting day during Ramadan, to break the day's fast. Literally, "breakfast." Iftar during Ramadan is often done as a community, with Muslims gathering to break their fast together. The time for Iftar is 12 to 15 minutes after Sunset. It is better to offer 'Magrib Namaz/salat' and then break one's fast, preferably with water, milk or dates.

The following Dua may be recited at the time of breaking one's fast: ALLAAHUMMA LAKA S'UMTU WA A'LAA RIZQIKA AFT'ARTU WA A'LAYKA TAWAWKKALTU O my Allah, for Thee, I fast, and with the food Thou gives me I break the fast, and I rely on Thee Ameer ul-Moomineen Ali Ibne Abi Taalib (A.S.) used to recite the following du'a before Iftaar: BISMILLAAH ALLAAHUMMA LAKA S'UMNAA WA A'LAA RIZQIKA AFT'ARNAA FA-TAQABBAL MINNAA INNAKA ANTAS SAMEE-U'L A'LEEM In the name of Allah, O Allah, we fast, and with the food Thou gives us we break the fast, an obligation we fulfill, and Thou art Hearer, Knower While taking the first mouthful recite: BISMILLAAHIR RAH'MAANIR RAH'EEM YAA WAASI-A'L MAGHFIRATI IGHFIR LEE In the name of Allah, the Beneficent

, the Merciful, O He whose indulgence is boundless, forgive me Recite Soorah Al-Qadr and give alms in the name of Allah (SWT).

Power of Dua at the time of Iftaar, Iftaree (Fast breaking during Ramadan) Once Prophet Moosa / Musa / Moses (peace be upon him) asked Almighty Allah (SWT): O Allah! You have granted me the honor and privilege of talking to you directly, Have you given this privilege to any other person? Almighty Allah (SWT) replied, O Moosa / Musa / Moses during the last period I am going to send an Ummat / Ummah (Community or Nation), who will be the Ummat / Ummah (Community or Nation) of Muhammad (SAW) with dry lips, parched tongues, emaciated body with eyes sunken deep into their sockets, with livers dry and stomachs suffering the pangs of hunger - will call out to me (in dua) they will be much much closer to me than you O Moosa / Musa / Moses! While you speak to me there are 70000 veils between you and me but at the time of iftaar there will not be a single veil between me and the fasting Ummati of Muhammad (SAW).

O Moosa / Musa / Moses I have taken upon myself the responsibility that at the time of iftaar I will never refuse the dua of a fasting person! KEEP YOURSELF OCCUPIED WITH DUA BEFORE BREAKING YOUR FAST Best Turkish Ramazan Recipes By Elizabeth Taviloglu Updated December 07, 2016. Ramazan is a time when Turkish families get together and spend extended periods eating, talking and socializing with relatives and friends while they enjoy a wide array of delicious foods. Most families go back to their roots during Ramazan and serve traditional dishes passed down through their families for generations. That’s why it’s one of the best times of year to enjoy ​ classic Turkish cuisine and as well as ​ regional favorites . Here is a list of recipes you can serve at each stage of 'iftar.' What Is ‘İftar’? ‘İftar’ (eef-TAR’) is the name for the first meal of the day which breaks the period of fasting between sunrise and sunset each day. The menu at the ‘iftar’ table is as important as the way it’s served.

Equally important is the shopping, preparation, and suspense each day until the evening call to prayer when cooks, helpers and hungry diners alike finally relax and eat. What To Expect At The ‘İftar’ Table There are many customs surrounding the ‘iftar’ meal. When the evening ‘ezan’ (ay-ZAHN’) , or call to prayer is heard, hungry diners always begin their meal with a sip of water, a bite of ‘pide’ bread, and a date or two. Once the fast is broken, it’s time to move on to the soup and light fare resembling classic Turkish breakfast . After a short break, diners continue to tackle the main courses to come. The meal comes to a conclusion with a selection of classic Turkish desserts and Turkish coffee or tea . A typical ‘iftar’ meal in Turkey begins with a sip of water, a few dates and olives, a bowl of hot soup and ‘pide’ bread. Photo © Ugurhan-Betin_Getty Images 1. Must-Haves At The ‘İftar’ Table There are many foods that are standard at the ‘iftar’ table. Especially the items eaten to break the fast each day.

Breakfast items that follow can be as a sample of olives and white cheese or more elaborate including many kinds of cheese, deli items like ‘sucuk’ (soo-JOOK’) and ‘pastırma’ (pah-STIR’-mah) and fresh fruit preserves. And don’t forget, a glass of water for everyone is a must! spice-cured beef slices, or ‘pastırma’ (pah-STIR’-mah) spicy sausage, or ‘sucuk’ (soo-JOOK’) sweet butter BCB - British Centres for Business BCB Doing Business In The UAE During Ramadan Posted on: July 1st, 2014 by Joe Hepworth 1 Comment Ramadan is a culturally significant event in the Emirates. It is a month in which Muslims globally take time to reflect on their faith, most obviously manifested through daily fasting for the duration of the Holy Month. In the UAE, this means the Muslim community does not eat, drink, smoke, chew, or have anything apart from medicine pass their lips from sunrise to sunset. In the UAE, public observance of Ramadan is a matter of law.

Muslims and non-Muslims alike are banned from consumption of any kind in public places. Whilst those who aren’t aware of these laws and take a sip of water in public are rarely arrested, taking that sip of water is a criminal offence. To help you navigate your first UAE Ramadan, we have listed below some of the most important considerations. Eating / drinking / smoking / chewing in public is illegal between the sound of the morning prayer (approx. 4-5am), and the sound of the evening prayer (approx. 6:30-7:15pm) If you are invited to an Iftar you should try to attend. This is the name of the meal that breaks the fast each evening and is considered a family event in most cases. To refuse might be considered impolite. You may also be invited to a Suhoor; this is a meal that usually starts at 2am. It is polite to respond to the invitation, even if you are unable to attend. Working hours will change, with many companies closing early in the afternoon. This is especially the case for government departments. Be aware of and sympathetic to your Muslim contacts, most of whom will be adjusting to the late nights and daily fasting. Not all restaurants close.

Some, under special licenses, cover windows and doors with curtains or decorative coverings that prevent things being seen from outside There are many UAE laws which seek to protect the cultural identity of the country, however the UAE is progressive and its people appreciate that not all residents are Muslims, and not all will be fasting. Please be aware of people around you, and if you are not sure what is permissible during Ramadan, send us an email and ask! What Christians should know about Ramadan and how to pray accordingly The History of Ramadan Ramadan – The Muslim Month of Fasting Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. It is during this month that Muslims observe the Fast of Ramadan. The dates vary each year as it is based on the lunar calendar. Coinciding with Ramadan, we produce a booklet for the Christian world called, “30 Days of Prayer for the Muslim world” (which can be ordered here ). The first evening of Ramadan In many places around the world Muslims will be looking to the heavens this evening. They will be interested in knowing if they will be able to see the crescent moon. If it is visible this will be the signal for the beginning of the month of Ramadan. (In most countries religious authorities will make a proclamation concerning the beginning of Ramadan).

No fasting will take place till tomorrow morning. Muslims will rise early to eat their breakfast before the day begins. Afterwards they will not have anything else to eat or drink till nightfall. This will be their daily experience during the next 30 days. Fasting – Ramadan Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of the religion of Islam and one of the highest forms of Islamic worship. Abstinence from earthly pleasures and curbing evil intentions and desires is regarded as an act of obedience and submission to God as well as an atonement for sins, errors, and mistakes. Called Ramadan (or Ramazan), Muslims fast during this holy month from the moment when it first starts to get light until sunset. Muslims fast as an act of faith and worship towards Allah, seeking to suppress their desires and increase their spiritual piety. Fasting together as a worldwide community – Ummah – affirms the brotherhood and equality of man before Allah. Islamic Calendar The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle. The month of Ramadan is the ninth month and begins with a combination of the sighting of the new moon and astronomical calculations. The exact time of Ramadan sometimes varies from place to place as some rely heavily on the moon sightings while others depend on science.

An Imam (Muslim holy man) will declare the exact time of Ramadan just prior to its commencement. The fasting period ends upon the sighting of the next new moon, which occurs after 29 or 30 days. The lunar cycle changes each year. For example, one year Ramadan was from the 22 August-20 September, but the year before the dates for Ramadan were 01-30 September. The Meaning of Ramadan The name Ramadan is derived from the Arabic word ramida or ar-ramad, denoting intense scorching heat and dryness, especially the ground. From the same word there is ramdaa, meaning ‘sunbaked sand’ and the famous proverb Kal Mustajeer minar ramadaa binnar – to jump out of the frying pan into the fire. Some say it is so called because Ramadan scorches out the sins with good deeds, as the sun burns the ground. The Special Feeling of Ramadan Ramadan brings out a special feeling of emotional excitement and religious zeal among Muslims of all ages. Though fasting is mandatory only for adults, children as young as eight willingly observe fasting with their elders. Children look forward to the excitement of sighting the moon and eating special meals with their families.

Adults appreciate the opportunity to double their rewards from God and seek forgiveness for past sins. As Ramadan emphasizes Muslim brotherhood and community all feel a particular closeness. Muslims have to change their whole physical and emotional selves during this 30 long days of fasting. A typical day of fasting begins with getting up early, around 4:30a.m. and sharing a meal called Sahur together before the fast begins at dawn, about 5:10a.m. As dawn breaks, the first of five daily prayers, Fajr, is offered. As the day proceeds, fasting Muslims are constantly bombarded with messages from their stomachs that it is time for breakfast, snack, lunch, and so on. And each time, Muslims remind themselves that they are fasting for the sole purpose of pleasing Allah and seeking his mercy. They offer the second and third prayers during early and late afternoon, respectively. Fasting helps one to experience how a hungry person feels and what it is like to have an empty stomach. It teaches one to share the sufferings of the less fortunate. Muslims believe that fasting leads one to appreciate the bounties of Allah, which are usually taken for granted – until they are missed!

Throughout the day Muslims are encouraged to go out of their way to help the needy, both financially and emotionally. Some believe that a reward earned during this month is multiplied 70 times and more. For this reason, Ramadan is also known as the month of charity and generosity. To a Muslim, fasting not only means abstaining from food, but also refraining from all vice and evils committed consciously or unconsciously. It is believed that if one volunteers to refrain from lawful foods and sex, they will be in a better position to avoid unlawful things and acts during the rest of the year. Breaking The Daily Fast During Ramadan The fast is broken at sunset. The Prophet Muhammad recommended breaking the fast with dates. Muslims are urged to invite others to break the fast with them. These gatherings are called Iftar parties. Just after breaking the fast, and before dinner, Muslims offer the fourth of the five daily prayers, which is called the Maghrib prayer. After dinner, Muslims go to their houses of worship, called Mosques, to offer the Isha prayer, which is the last of the five daily prayers. The day ends with a special voluntary prayer, the Taraweeh, offered by the congregation reciting the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam.

The Last 10 Days of Ramadan The last ten days of Ramadan are considered highly blessed, especially the 27th night which is also called the ‘Night of Power’, or the ‘Night of Destiny’. It is believed that on this night the prophet Muhammad received the first revelation of the Qur’an. For many Muslims, this period is marked by a heightened spiritual intensity and they may spend these nights praying and reciting the Qur’an. After 30 days of fasting, the end of the month of Ramadan is observed with a day of celebration, called Eid-ul-Fitr. On this day, Muslims gather in one place to offer a prayer of thanks. It is traditional to wear new clothes, visit friends and relatives, exchange gifts, eat delicious dishes prepared for this occasion, and wait patiently for the next year. What the Bible Says About Fasting In the Bible, we do not find any one method of fasting required of us, but the Lord Jesus did say however, “when you fast…” (Matthew 6:16), seeming to assume that His followers would imitate His own example. We fast as an outward symbol of our devotion to God, being willing to deny ourselves food for His sake.

Fasting adds intensity to our prayer, and often leads to breakthroughs. We do not fast to convince or persuade Him, but rather to identify with His broken heart and with His desire for all mankind to know Him. “Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free and that you break every yoke. Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out.” (Isaiah 58:6 &7)

Question: What is the name for the ceremonial meal which breaks the fast each evening in Ramadan?
Answer: Iftaar