Why dates in iftar? Image Credit source: PTI
Ramadan fasting Spiritual Meaning: The holy month of Ramadan is about to begin and this month has a very special significance in the Muslim community. In Ramadan, fasting, offering namaz, doing charity and maintaining self-control are considered very virtuous acts. During this time, Sehri (morning meal) and Iftar (breaking of fast in the evening) have special importance.
At the time of Iftar, it is often seen that people of the Muslim community break their fast by eating dates first. But have you ever wondered why Roza is broken with dates? Along with religious belief, there are also scientific reasons behind this. Let us know in detail.
According to Islamic belief, breaking the fast by eating dates is considered Sunnah. Sunnah means the tradition told or adopted by the Prophet. It is believed that Hazrat Muhammad was very fond of dates and he used to consume dates first while breaking his fast. For this reason, this tradition has been going on in the Muslim community for centuries and even today people consider it auspicious and virtuous to start Iftar with dates.
Apart from religious importance, consumption of dates is also considered very beneficial from health point of view.
After fasting for the whole day, the amount of glucose in the body reduces. Dates contain natural sugar, which gives instant energy to the body and removes weakness.
Fiber is found in abundance in dates, which helps in normalizing the digestion process after being on an empty stomach for a long time.
During fasting, water is not drunk for a long time, which can cause dehydration in the body. Dates help in keeping the body balanced by providing essential nutrients.
After fasting, many people feel headache and fatigue. The vitamins and minerals present in dates are helpful in reducing these problems by giving strength to the body.
Ramadan is not just about being hungry and thirsty, but it also has spiritual and social significance. By fasting, a person learns to control his mind and desires. Because the month of Ramadan is considered a time for introspection and worship of Allah, which gives spiritual peace. Zakat and charity have special importance in this month, through which poor and needy people are helped. Roza also teaches a person to be patient and maintain composure even in difficult situations.
The Islamic calendar is based on the moon, so the exact date of Ramadan is decided after the moon is visible. According to belief, if the moon is visible in India on the evening of 18 February 2026, then the first Roza will be observed from 19 February 2026.
Also read: What to do and what not to do during fasting? Before the start of Ramadan, know the important rules of the month of Pak.
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on Islamic beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.