Reclaiming the True Spirit of Iftar: A Call for Mindful Observance.

||Black and White Digital News||

||Parvinder Singh March 24, 2025||

Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is a time of deep spiritual reflection, discipline, and communal bonding. At the heart of this sacred month lies Iftar, the moment of breaking the fast at sunset—a profound act of gratitude, humility, and devotion. However, in recent years, the very essence of Iftar has been overshadowed by grand social events that, if not conducted with sincerity, risk turning a deeply spiritual moment into a spectacle of extravagance.

The growing trend of large-scale Iftar parties, especially in urban elite and political circles, raises critical questions about their alignment with the core values of Ramadan. While gathering for Iftar fosters unity and social harmony, the increasing commercialization and ostentation associated with these events threaten to dilute their spiritual essence. This editorial seeks to explore the true meaning of Iftar, critique the rising trend of extravagant Iftar parties, and offer constructive solutions for restoring the sanctity of this blessed tradition.

Iftar: A Moment of Devotion, Not Display:

In its purest form, Iftar is not just a meal—it is an act of faith. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized breaking the fast with dates and water, followed by prayer, as a means of acknowledging Allah’s (SWT) blessings and remembering the less fortunate. The essence of fasting lies in self-restraint, humility, and spiritual growth, not in lavish feasts and social networking.

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“He who provides a fasting person something with which to break his fast will earn the same reward as the one who was observing the fast, without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter.” (At-Tirmidhi)

This hadith highlights the importance of generosity in Ramadan, but it also serves as a reminder that true generosity is about sincerity, not ostentation. Unfortunately, many modern Iftar gatherings, particularly those hosted by political figures, celebrities, and business magnates, seem more focused on visibility, status, and influence rather than the actual spirit of charity and inclusion.

The Rise of Ostentatious Iftar Parties: A Disturbing Trend:

In many urban centers, Iftar has become an occasion for elite socialization, where guest lists often include VIPs, media personalities, and politicians—while the underprivileged are conspicuously absent. Such events risk turning a sacred practice into an exclusive social club.

Key Issues with Extravagant Iftar Gatherings:

1. Loss of Spiritual Essence – Attendees often prioritize socializing over prayers, supplications (duas), and self-reflection. Idle chatter, networking, and even excessive use of mobile phones take precedence over the true purpose of Iftar.

2. Exclusion of the Needy – While Islam places immense emphasis on caring for the less fortunate, many Iftar parties are organized without considering those who cannot afford a decent meal. An Iftar that excludes the poor contradicts the fundamental teachings of Islam.

3. Political Exploitation – In recent years, Iftar parties have become a political tool, where leaders host grand feasts not out of religious duty, but as a means of gaining public favor. The sincerity of such gatherings becomes questionable when they are primarily used for public relations and vote-bank politics.

4. Wastefulness and Extravagance – Ramadan teaches simplicity and gratitude, yet many Iftar events feature lavish buffets, expensive decorations, and unnecessary luxury. This is in direct contradiction to the Quran’s teachings:

“Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.” (Quran 17:27)

Restoring the Sanctity of Iftar: A Call for Change:

To reclaim the true essence of Iftar, it is essential to adopt a more mindful and intentional approach towards its observance. The following steps can help ensure that Iftar remains a spiritually enriching experience rather than a mere social event:

1. Emphasizing Spirituality Over Socializing

Iftar gatherings should be centered around prayer, reflection, and gratitude rather than gossip and self-promotion.

The practice of offering collective duas (supplications) before breaking the fast should be encouraged.

2. Prioritizing Inclusivity and Charity

Instead of limiting guest lists to elite circles, hosts should invite the underprivileged, orphans, daily wage workers, and refugees as honored guests of Allah.

Hosting Iftar in orphanages, old-age homes, and community centers can restore the spirit of charity that defines Ramadan.

3. Curbing Wastefulness and Ostentation

Extravagance should be avoided, and modesty in food, decorations, and arrangements should be upheld.

Instead of excessive spending on lavish buffets, organizers can donate funds to charitable causes such as providing meals for the needy.

4. Ensuring Sincerity in Political and Public Iftar Gatherings

Political and corporate Iftar gatherings should be genuinely inclusive and not mere PR stunts.

If leaders truly wish to engage with their communities, they should host Iftar in public places accessible to all, regardless of social or economic status.

The True Meaning of Iftar: An Opportunity for Unity:

Despite the growing commercialization of Iftar, it is important to remember that this sacred tradition still holds the potential to bridge divides and strengthen communal bonds. An Iftar that welcomes people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds reflects the universal values of compassion and coexistence that Islam stands for.

By preserving the sanctity of Iftar, we ensure that Ramadan remains a time of spiritual nourishment, humility, and generosity—not just an occasion for elaborate feasts. If we truly wish to honor the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), we must redirect our focus towards sincerity, simplicity, and social responsibility.

As Ramadan unfolds, let us all strive to uphold the true spirit of Iftar, remembering that its purpose is not to impress the world, but to seek nearness to Allah. May we have the toufeeq (ability) to observe this sacred practice with purity, devotion, and compassion.

Ramadan Mubarak.