Ramadan is a sacred month of fasting, prayer, and self-discipline. It is a time when Muslims seek spiritual growth, engage in charitable deeds, and purify their souls. Among the key aspects of fasting, Sehri and Iftar hold immense significance. Sehri is the pre-dawn meal that sustains fasting Muslims throughout the day, while Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset.

Observing Sehri and Iftar according to Islamic teachings brings both spiritual and physical benefits. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of partaking in these meals, as they offer sustenance and blessings. They also provide essential nourishment and reflect the spirit of gratitude, discipline, and community in Islam

In this blog, we will explore the significance of Sehri and Iftar, their health benefits, Sunnah practices, recommended foods, and how MOHID’s Sponsorship Scheduler Module can help manage Iftar and Sahoor sponsorships in masjids.

WHAT IS SEHRI?

Sehri, also known as Suhoor, is the pre-dawn meal consumed before the Fajr prayer, marking the beginning of the daily fast. It is a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is highly recommended in Islam for maintaining energy and hydration throughout the day.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Take Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is a blessing.” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)

Sehri is not just a physical preparation for fasting but a spiritual practice that aligns with Islamic teachings. It is an opportunity for worshippers to seek blessings and start the day with a nourished body and soul. Eating a balanced meal at Sehri helps sustain energy levels throughout the day and prepares the body for fasting.

Why is Sehri Important in Ramadan?

• Spiritual Blessings: Sehri is a Sunnah practice that carries divine blessings.
• Physical Endurance: It helps maintain energy levels and prevents dehydration.
• Mental Focus: A well-balanced Sehri meal improves concentration and productivity throughout the day.
• Metabolic Benefits: Sehri stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing fatigue and dizziness.

WHAT IS IFTAR?

Iftar is the meal taken at sunset to break the fast. It is a moment of gratitude and fulfillment, marking the completion of a day of patience and devotion. Iftar is often a communal affair, fostering unity and generosity within the Muslim community.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of hastening to break the fast at the designated time.

“The people will remain upon goodness as long as they hasten to break their fast.” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)

Breaking the fast with dates and water is a Sunnah practice, as it provides an instant energy boost while being gentle on the digestive system.

Why is Iftar Important in Ramadan?

• A Rewarded Act: Breaking the fast on time is a highly rewarded deed in Islam.
• A Moment of Dua: The time before Iftar is an ideal moment to make supplications, as prayers are more likely to be accepted.
• Fostering Unity: Iftar meals strengthen bonds within families and communities.
• Health Benefits: A balanced Iftar meal replenishes energy and restores hydration.

BENEFITS OF SEHRI IN RAMADAN

Eating Sehri not only fulfills a religious obligation but also provides numerous health advantages:

1. Sustains Energy Levels

Eating Sehri ensures that the body has the necessary nutrients to endure the long fasting hours, preventing fatigue and dehydration.

2. Enhances Metabolism

A well-balanced Sehri meal kickstarts metabolism, helping the body maintain energy and burn calories efficiently.

3. Fulfilling a Sunnah

The act of having Sehri is a blessed practice encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), bringing both spiritual and physical rewards.

4. 4. Sense of Community

Families wake up together and begin their day with the remembrance of Allah.

5. Aids Digestion:

Eating fiber-rich and protein-rich foods keeps the digestive system healthy.

6. Reduces Fatigue:

Proper nutrition at Sehri minimizes exhaustion throughout the fasting hours.

SIGNIFICANCE OF IFTAR IN ISLAM

Iftar is a highly rewarding act that holds immense significance in Islam:

1. A Moment of Gratitude

Iftar is an opportunity to express gratitude for sustenance and acknowledge the struggles of the less fortunate.

2. Strengthening Bonds

Muslims gather with family and the community to break their fast together, reinforcing unity and compassion.

3. Reward of Breaking the Fast

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The fasting person has two joys: one when he breaks his fast, and one when he meets his Lord” (Bukhari, Muslim).

4. Spiritual Elevation

The time of Iftar is a blessed moment for making dua, as prayers are accepted.

5. Health Benefits

Replenishes energy levels and restores essential nutrients lost during fasting.

SUNNAH OF SEHRI AND IFTAR

Following the Sunnah practices of Sehri and Iftar enhances the spiritual and physical benefits of fasting:

• Sunnah of Sehri:
  • Eat something light, even if it is just a sip of water.
  • Recite Bismillah before starting.
  • Intend to fast sincerely for Allah’s sake.
  • Delaying it close to Fajr but not too late.
• Sunnah of Iftar:
  • Breaking the fast promptly at Maghrib with dates and water.
  • Seeking Allah’s blessings before and after eating.
  • Avoid overeating immediately after breaking the fast.
  • Feeding others at Iftar is highly rewarded in Islam.

BEST FOODS FOR SEHRI AND IFTAR

Choosing the right foods for Sehri and Iftar helps maintain health, energy levels, and hydration:

Best Foods for Sehri

• Oatmeal and Whole Grains: Oats and brown rice provide sustained energy.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Watermelon and cucumber supply essential vitamins and hydration.
• Protein-rich Foods: Eggs, yogurt, and nuts keep you full longer.

• Water and Hydrating Foods: Herbal teas and water prevent dehydration.

Best Foods for Iftar

• Dates and Water: A Sunnah way to break the fast and restore energy.
• Soups and Hydrating Foods: Soups and stews aid digestion and hydration.
• Lean Proteins and Healthy Fats: Fish and chicken help replenish the body’s strength.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vitamins and minerals.

• Healthy Carbohydrates: Such as rice, whole wheat bread, and legumes.

MANAGING IFTAR AND SAHOOR SPONSORSHIPS WITH MOHID’S SCHEDULER MODULE

Mosques and Islamic centers often organize Iftar and Sehri sponsorships, allowing the community to contribute to feeding others. Managing Sehri and Iftar sponsorships can be challenging during Ramadan. MOHID’s Scheduler Module simplifies the process by:

• Providing an integrated platform to manage sponsorships.
• Displaying available sponsorship dates online and through KIOSK and signage players.
• Allowing sponsors to make full or partial payments seamlessly.
• Ensuring no day goes unsponsored, fostering generosity in the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Sehri in Ramadan?

Sehri is the pre-dawn meal consumed before fasting begins, providing essential energy, physical strength and spiritual blessings to fulfill a Sunnah practice.

2. What is Iftar in Ramadan?

Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset, traditionally started with dates and water, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH).

3. Why is Sehri important in Ramadan?

Sehri ensures that a person remains hydrated and energized throughout the fasting hours. It also carries spiritual rewards.

4. Is it mandatory to eat Sehri before fasting?

Although Sehri is highly recommended as it aligns with the Sunnah and helps in maintaining good health during fasting, but fasting is still valid without it. However, missing Sehri can make fasting more challenging.

5. What is the Sunnah way to eat Iftar?

The Sunnah way is to break the fast promptly at Maghrib with dates and water, recite the Du’a for breaking the fast. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized eating in moderation.

CONCLUSION

Sehri and Iftar are not just meals; they are integral parts of Ramadan, offering immense spiritual, physical, and communal benefits. Observing the Sunnah practices and consuming nutritious foods enhances the fasting experience. Choosing the right foods, making Dua, and sharing meals with others enriches the spirit of Ramadan.

For masjids managing community Iftar and Sehri sponsorships, MOHID’s Scheduler Module offers an efficient and seamless solution to ensure no day goes unsponsored.