Ramazan has a uniqueness that sets it apart from other Islamic months. Not because you can reap blessings around the clock, and in hundreds of ways, it also has the feel of festivity in it. While Islam promotes simplicity and encourages good deeds towards others, it also brings people closer, teaching the value of brotherhood and empathy.

While performing our daily activities, the pace of things is usually slow for most of us who are fasting. However, when iftar time approaches, there is a surge of energy not only to prepare the meal, but also to express love and compassion among one another. Don’t you agree that when you are sitting together — whether with your friends enjoying an iftar party or with family — taking the first bite of a date feels so heart-warming?

Indeed, it is a moment when you sense closeness with both people (family, friends, even strangers) and Almighty, as you fast for His pleasure and satisfaction. Words cannot fully convey the profound experience and the sensation of that first sip of a drink after a day purely dedicated to fasting on Allah’s command.

An atmosphere of spirituality

As the Maghrib prayer begins, the atmosphere fills up with a shared feeling of spirituality, gratitude and togetherness. Mosques light up to welcome worshippers, while families gather together around the iftar table, take a pause from the stresses of daily life and get ready to embrace a mutual religious fervour that is in no way comparable to any other gathering.

A time for family bonding

There is no doubt that iftar is a blissful family affair, as it brings together two to three generations around the table, which is not a daily occurrence in most families. For instance, it is usually the father who is absent during lunchtime, and in some cases, a working mother might also miss out on lunchtime. Subsequently, each family member ends up having their lunch on their own.

However, iftar presents a unique opportunity for most family members to share a meal together, regardless of their work schedules. So, when majority of family members gather and engage in light chatter and jokes, passing scrumptious delicacies from one hand to the other, it creates a special moment of bonding that may not happen during regular meals or in other months.

Community iftar encourage compassion

What sets apart ‘iftar’ from other social gatherings is the way it brings even strangers together on one platform, which is the dasterkhuwaan often hosted by mosques, various organisations and community groups. I am sure you have seen many around.

Here, people of all backgrounds sit and break their fast together. These community iftar serve as a beautiful bridge of unity, breaking the barriers of ethnicity and status. This simple act of sharing a meal strengthens sympathy, generosity and humanity leaving a lasting impact for years to come.

Iftar is not just about the meals we share, it’s more about enhancing the bonds through shared laughter and love with our family.

It’s that beautiful time of the day when generations unite around the table and create lasting memories.

So, let’s enjoy every moment of iftar together!

Published in Dawn, Young World, March 23rd, 2024