THE SIGNIFICANCE OF IFTAR

and the physical aspects, and the spiritual benefits will be lost. In fact, a lavish iftar kills the true spirit of fasting. The Prophet of Islam and his Companions always used to take simple food at the time of iftar. Iftar ostensibly ends the time of fasting, but treating it as an end would be an underestimation. For the spiritually awakened mind, it is like a new beginning towards spiritual upliftment. Such a person will analyze the experiences of the day and try to learn lessons from them. Iftar gives a glimpse of the boundless rewards that await man in the world Hereafter. These days, organizing iftar parties has become a tradition. But this party should not be like any other party. Such a party should give us an opportunity for spiritual exchange, turning our individual experience into a social experience. It is reported that the Prophet of Islam used to say at the time of iftar, ‘Thirst has been quenched, and hunger is no more, and, God willing, God will bless us with His reward.’ This shows that iftar invokes the spirit of prayer. It gives us an opportunity to say, ‘O God, I have fulfilled my duty and now I hope You will not deprive me of Your higher blessings.’ During the fast, the pangs of hunger and thirst make a man feel vulnerable and he turns towards God with renewed zeal. He cries out, ‘God, I have obeyed Your one command, there are many I could not. I kept one day’s fast, but I failed on several other occasions. I seek Your forgiveness and your special blessings.’ When a sincere prayer like this is uttered, God turns His special attention to it and the rewards are boundless. Man prays in this world and the reward is given in the world Hereafter. But fasting is an exception for which a taste of the reward is given in this world itself. Iftar gives a glimpse of the boundless rewards that await man in the world Hereafter. o According to Islamic teachings, iftar should be a simple meal and not a lavish affair.