Introduction
During the holy month of Ramadan, fasting (Roza) is observed from dawn until sunset. At the end of the day, breaking the fast, or Iftar, holds deep spiritual importance. It is not only a time to nourish the body after fasting, but also a time to thank Allah for His countless blessings and seek His mercy.
Reciting the Dua for Iftar (Roza Kholne Ki Dua) is an essential practice that brings immense rewards and spiritual benefits. In this article, we will explore the significance of Iftar, the dua to recite when breaking the fast, and the teachings from authentic Hadith.
Iftar: A Detailed View
Iftar is a special meal taken by Muslims to break their fast after sunset during Ramadan. It is not just about eating and drinking but also about appreciating Allah’s bounties and remembering those in need. This meal is usually started with dates and water, as was the practice of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said that Allah rewards those who fast, for their sacrifice of food, drink, and desires during the day. This reward is multiplied many times over, especially in the blessed month of Ramadan.
Fasting has spiritual as well as physical benefits. It gives the digestive system a break and allows the body to rest and repair itself. The time of Iftar serves as a reminder to be thankful for the food and drink we have, and to realize the hardships faced by others who are less fortunate.
Significance of Iftar
The act of providing food to someone fasting is highly rewarded in Islam. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized:
“Whoever feeds a person breaking his fast will earn the same reward as him, without anything being lessened from the reward of the fasting person.”
(Jami at-Tirmidhi 807)
This hadith highlights the immense reward of charity and feeding others, especially during the blessed time of Iftar. The significance of Iftar is not just in breaking the fast, but also in remembering the importance of compassion and charity.
Roza Kholne Ki Dua | Dua for Iftar
Before and after breaking the fast, it is recommended to recite specific Duas. These prayers remind us to express our gratitude to Allah for His blessings and mercy.
Dua Before Iftar
Before starting your Iftar meal, you can recite this short Dua:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ
Bismillah
(In the name of Allah)
Reference: Jami at-Tirmidhi 1858
This simple yet powerful dua is recited to acknowledge Allah’s name before eating, showing that all sustenance comes from Him.
Dua After Iftar
After breaking the fast, the following Dua is commonly recited:
ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الْأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ.
Dhahaba adh-Dhama’u wabtallati al-urooqu wa thabata al-ajru in sha Allah
(Thirst has gone, the veins are moist, and the reward is assured, if Allah wills.)
Reference: Abu Dawud 2357
This dua expresses gratitude to Allah for relieving thirst and hunger, while acknowledging that the reward of fasting is granted by Allah alone.
Benefits of Reciting Dua for Breaking the Fast
- Gratitude to Allah: Expressing thanks for the food and drink He has provided after a day of fasting.
- Forgiveness of Sins: Seeking Allah’s forgiveness for any shortcomings during the day.
- Strengthening Faith: Reciting these Duas strengthens one’s connection with Allah and enhances mindfulness during worship.
- Community Bonding: Breaking the fast together and reciting Duas fosters a sense of unity among Muslims.
- Focus on Charity: The act of feeding others and remembering those in need is emphasized during Iftar, teaching compassion and empathy.
Hastening to Break the Fast
It is Sunnah to break the fast as soon as the sun sets. Delaying the Iftar unnecessarily is discouraged, as Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) encouraged Muslims to hasten to break their fast.
“The people will continue to do well so long as they hasten to break the fast.”
(Narrated by al-Bukhari 1957 and Muslim 1098a)
This hadith shows the importance of promptly breaking the fast at the correct time.
Provisions for Iftar
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would break his fast with dates and water, if available. It is recommended to follow this Sunnah, as it is simple and beneficial for the body after fasting.
Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) said:
“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to break his fast with fresh dates before praying. If there were no fresh dates, he would eat dried dates. If there were no dried dates, he would take a few sips of water.”
(Sunan Abi Dawood 2356)
Conclusion
Reciting the Dua for Iftar is a beautiful way to express gratitude and seek Allah’s blessings during the holy month of Ramadan. Following the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Muslims strengthen their faith, experience the spiritual benefits of fasting, and increase their awareness of the blessings they have.
As Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Dua is worship.” It is through sincere supplication and gratitude that one can draw closer to Allah, especially during the blessed time of Iftar.
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine during Ramadan, you enhance your spiritual life and open the door to receiving Allah’s countless blessings and rewards.
FAQ – Roza Kholne Ki Dua
1. What is the right Dua for after Iftar?
The right Dua is:
“ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الْأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ.”
“Thirst has gone, the veins are moist, and the reward is assured if Allah wills.”
(Abu Dawud 2357)
2. Which fruit is good for Iftar?
The date is considered the best fruit for Iftar, as it was a favorite of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
3. What Surah should be recited before Iftar?
There is no specific Surah that must be recited before Iftar. However, it is important to recite Bismillah before starting your meal.
By following the Sunnah and making these supplications, we can make the act of breaking our fast an act of worship, and by Allah’s mercy, we can hope for rewards both in this world and the Hereafter.