Ramadan is a sacred month for every Muslim in the world, commemorated through fasting during sunrise to sunset, symbolizing commitment and surrender to Allah. The month brings people together, especially at sehri (the dawn meal) and iftar (the meal of breaking the fast), to enjoy these sacred moments of spirituality and companionship.
UNESCO Declares Iftar as an Intangible Cultural Heritage
In 2023, UNESCO declared iftar as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, appreciating its cultural significance. UNESCO received the joint application from Azerbaijan, Iran, Uzbekistan, and others, emphasizing the common cultural significance of this practice for all cultures. Breaking the fast with dates and tea is a traditional practice that makes iftar a highly social and cultural celebration.
Origin Story of Iftar
The custom of breaking the fast with dates has religious origins. The Prophet Muhammad used to break his fast with fresh dates, or in their absence, dry dates, or even a few gulps of water. This custom is a sunnah, or a Prophet’s tradition, and continues to be observed even today, as dates are rich in vital vitamins, minerals, and potassium that do good to the body and immune system.
Iftar, which refers to breaking or splitting away from the Arabic source, is in the evening at the end of 12-15 hours of fasting. It is a religious and spiritual dinner in Islam, asked for by the Prophet to break the fasting as soon as possible, hence a time of gratitude and closeness to Allah. The shared eating brings people together, as Muslims tend to eat with family, friends, and the community at mosques.
The practice of fasting for a day teaches self-discipline and patience, whereas Iftar is an encouragement and group activity reaffirming the stronger spiritual experience of Ramadan.
