Sehri is the pre-dawn meal consumed before the day's fast begins. It is an essential component of the Ramadan experience, both physically and spiritually. The time for Sehri ends at the call to the Fajr (dawn) prayer, when the first light of day becomes distinct.

Muslims are encouraged to eat this meal as it provides the necessary energy to sustain them through the day. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the blessings in Sehri, saying, "Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing."

Delaying the Sehri meal as close to the Fajr prayer time as possible is a Sunnah, or a recommended practice of the Prophet. This ensures the fast is as complete as possible while still receiving the blessings of the meal.

A balanced Sehri meal should consist of slow-releasing carbohydrates and protein to provide long-lasting energy. Foods like oats, whole-grain bread, eggs, and dairy products are excellent choices. Hydration is also key, so drinking plenty of water and eating water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon is highly recommended.

Iftar: Breaking the Fast

Iftar is the joyful moment of breaking the fast at sunset, with the call to the Maghrib (sunset) prayer. This meal is a time of great spiritual significance and communal joy. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would break his fast with dates and water before performing the Maghrib prayer.

Following this tradition, Muslims often begin their Iftar with dates. Dates are rich in natural sugars and provide a quick energy boost.

The Iftar meal is a time for families and communities to gather, share food, and give thanks. Mosques often host large Iftar dinners, and people invite friends and neighbors of all faiths to share in the blessings. It is a time for forgiveness, generosity, and strengthening bonds.

The spiritual rewards for feeding a person who is fasting are immense. The Prophet said, "Whoever feeds a person breaking his fast will earn the same reward as him, without anything being lessened from the reward of the fasting person."

Navigating Time Zone Variations

The exact times for Sehri and Iftar are determined by the position of the sun and vary daily and by location. This is why a reliable Ramadan timetable or calendar is crucial for every Muslim. The fasting period begins at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib).

In some regions, especially those with extreme daylight hours (e.g., polar regions), Muslims may follow the timetable of a nearby city or Mecca. This helps maintain a reasonable fasting schedule.

Islamic apps, local mosques, and community centers provide accurate timetables for each city, making it easier for Muslims to adhere to their fasting schedule. It is vital to consult these reliable sources to ensure the fast is observed correctly.

The Spiritual Essence of Ramadan

Beyond the physical act of fasting, Ramadan is a month of spiritual growth. The discipline of adhering to the Sehri and Iftar times reinforces patience and self-control. Every minute of the fast serves as a reminder of a Muslim's devotion to God.

It is a month for increased Quran recitation, extra nightly prayers (Taraweeh), and acts of charity (Zakat and Sadaqah). By consciously observing these practices, a Muslim seeks to cleanse their soul, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to their Creator.