Dua for Iftar and Suhoor

Preparing Your Heart and Mind for Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan is a journey of spiritual growth, self-reflection and devotion. Muslims worldwide observe suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, and iftar, the meal to break the fast, with great reverence. These moments are cherished opportunities to connect with Allah (SWT) through prayer and dua. Preparing for the final minutes of suhoor and iftar with sincere intentions and supplications can elevate our fasts and bring us closer to our Creator. Let’s explore the dua for iftar, dua before closing your fast and the power of these precious moments. This Ramadan, remember those who are less fortunate like the Orphans In Need and consider dedicating a dua for them.

The Significance of Dua During Suhoor and Iftar

Suhoor and iftar are more than just meals; they’re sacred windows of mercy when Allah (SWT) listens intently to our prayers. Making dua before and after each is recommended as it’s a time when prayers are accepted. The dua for iftar and suhoor remind us of our reliance on Allah (SWT) and help us focus on our intentions for the day.

“The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, ‘There are three whose supplications are not rejected: the fasting person until he breaks his fast, the just leader, and the supplication of the oppressed person.’” (Tirmidhi)

Preparing for the Final Minutes of Suhoor

Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal that fuels our bodies and souls for the day ahead. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended that Muslims delay suhoor to just before Fajr, and these final minutes are ideal for making heartfelt dua.

During the last few minutes of suhoor, it’s beneficial to reflect on your intentions and seek Allah’s (SWT) guidance. You can make personal duas for strength, health and patience to carry you through the day. Remembering the less fortunate, such as orphans and those without food security, can deepen our gratitude for what we have.

Dua Before Closing Your Fast (Suhoor Dua)

Before Fajr arrives, close your fast by making dua to Allah (SWT). The dua to say when closing your fast at suhoor is:

“Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri Ramadan.”

This translates to:

“I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.”

This intention (niyyah) confirms your resolve to observe the fast, beginning with the pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and abstaining from food and drink until sunset. While it’s not obligatory to verbalise the intention, some people prefer to say it to solidify their commitment.

“I intend to fast for the sake of Allah tomorrow.”

Reciting this dua with sincerity helps reinforce your commitment to the fast. You may also ask Allah to accept your suhoor as a means of worship and to keep you steadfast.

What to Read After Suhoor

After suhoor, and before Fajr, take a few minutes to read the Quran or make additional duas. This is a moment when your mind and spirit are refreshed, ready to receive Allah’s (SWT) guidance for the day. Reciting Ayat al-Kursi (Quran 2:255) and the four Quls (last four surahs of the Quran) offers protection and blessings as you enter your day of fasting.

Duas to Make Before Iftar

As the sun begins to set, the anticipation of iftar brings excitement, but it’s also a time to make sincere dua, as it’s one of the most blessed moments for supplication. In the minutes before breaking your fast, raise your hands in dua and ask Allah (SWT) to forgive your sins, strengthen your faith and provide you with patience and gratitude. This is also a time to make dua for orphans, the needy, and anyone facing hardship.

Dua for Breaking Your Fast (Iftar Dua)

The dua for iftar, or the dua before breaking your fast, is simple yet powerful. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would recite:

“Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu wa ‘ala rizq-ika-aftartu”
(O Allah, I fasted for You, and I believe in You, and I put my trust in You, and with Your sustenance, I break my fast).

This iftar dua is a beautiful reminder of our dependency on Allah’s (SWT) provisions and our devotion to Him. As you break your fast, take a moment to be thankful and seek blessings.

Another commonly recited iftar dua is:

“Dhahaba az-zama’ wabtallat al-urooq wa thabatal-ajr insha Allah”
(The thirst has gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills).

This dua not only acknowledges the physical relief from hunger and thirst but also the spiritual reward that comes with fasting.

Dua for Orphans In Need

During these special moments, remember those who are less fortunate. Making dua for orphans and those in need is a beautiful way to align your heart with compassion and mercy. This Ramadan, consider including a dua like:

“O Allah, provide for orphans and those in need, give them comfort, shelter, and joy in their lives, and make me a means of support for them.”

This prayer extends the blessings of iftar beyond yourself, creating a ripple of kindness in the world. Additionally, consider supporting orphans in need, ensuring that they too can experience the joy and fulfilment of a warm meal.

The Power of Dua in Ramadan

Dua is a precious gift that brings us closer to Allah (SWT) and allows us to seek His mercy, forgiveness and guidance. By focusing on making dua during suhoor and iftar, you not only nourish your body but also feed your soul with spirituality and gratitude.

This Ramadan, as you sit down for iftar, remember the orphans and those who lack basic necessities. A simple act of charity, coupled with dua, can make a world of difference for those in need.

May Allah (SWT) accept our fasts, duas, and acts of charity.