Introduction:
The month of Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims around the world, and it is an opportunity to strengthen their connection with God through prayer, fasting, and self-reflection. Breaking the fast at sunset each day is a special moment, and it is a tradition to say a short supplication to express gratitude to God and seek forgiveness.
1. Significance of Dua at Iftar:
– Saying dua before breaking the fast is a way of showing gratitude to God for the strength and guidance He provided throughout the day.
– It is also an opportunity to seek forgiveness for any shortcomings or mistakes made during the fast.
– It is a reminder of the blessings of Ramadan and the importance of making the most of this special time.
2. Recommended Dua for Breaking the Fast:
– This dua is narrated by Abu Dawud and is a concise supplication that captures the essence of gratitude and forgiveness:
“اللهم لك صمت وعلى رزقك أفطرت، فتقبل مني إنك أنت السميع العليم.”
Translation: “O Allah, for You I fasted and with Your provisions I break my fast. Accept from me, for You are the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.”
3. Breaking the Fast with Loved Ones:
– Sharing iftar with family and friends is a cherished tradition in Muslim communities.
– It is a time to come together, celebrate the end of the fast, and reflect on the blessings of Ramadan.
– Inviting others to share iftar is a form of sadaqah (charity) and a way of strengthening bonds of friendship and community.
4. Supplications for Forgiveness and Repentance:
– Ramadan is a time for seeking forgiveness for past sins and making a sincere commitment to change.
– Dua can be made at iftar to ask God for forgiveness and guidance.
– Some recommended supplications for forgiveness include:
“اللهم إني أسألك العفو والعافية في الدنيا والآخرة.”
“O Allah, I ask You for forgiveness and well-being in this world and the hereafter.”
“اللهم اغفر لي ذنوبي جميعًا ظاهرهما وباطنهما.”
“O Allah, forgive all my sins, apparent and hidden.”
5. Dua for Guidance and Success:
– Ramadan is a time to reflect on one’s spiritual progress and to set goals for the future.
– Dua can be made at iftar to seek God’s guidance and assistance in achieving those goals.
– Some recommended supplications for guidance include:
“اللهم وفقني لما تحب وترضى.”
“O Allah, guide me to that which You love and are pleased with.”
“اللهم إني أسألك التوفيق والسداد والرشاد.”
“O Allah, I ask You for success, righteousness, and guidance.”
6. Dua for Protection and Blessing:
– Ramadan is a time to seek God’s protection and blessings for oneself, one’s family, and the Muslim community.
– Dua can be made at iftar to ask for protection from evil, harm, and diseases.
– Some recommended supplications for protection include:
“اللهم احفظني بحفظك وأمنني بأمانك.”
“O Allah, protect me with Your protection and keep me safe with Your safety.”
“اللهم ارحمني برحمتك.”
“O Allah, have mercy on me with Your mercy.”
7. Concluding Dua:
– It is recommended to conclude the iftar meal with a dua that expresses gratitude for the blessings of food and nourishment.
– This dua is narrated by Abu Dawud:
“الحمد لله الذي أطعمنا وسقانا ورزقنا.”
Translation: “Praise be to Allah who has fed us, quenched our thirst, and provided for us.”
Conclusion:
The dua at iftar is a meaningful way to mark the end of the fast, express gratitude to God, seek forgiveness for shortcomings, and pray for guidance, success, protection, and blessings. It is an integral part of the Ramadan experience and a cherished tradition that connects Muslims across generations and cultures.