Hosting ifṭār is more than just sharing food — it is a chance to earn reward, strengthen brotherhood, and revive the Prophetic Sunnah. 


1. Begin With Sincere Intention

Make the gathering for the sake of Allah, seeking reward through feeding others. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will have a reward like theirs, without reducing their reward in the slightest.” [Sunan al-Tirmidhī, 807 | Hasan]





2. Keep It Simple

The Sunnah is to eat lightly and avoid extravagance. Offer simple foods such as dates, water, fruits, and wholesome meals without turning ifṭār into a feast of waste.

3. Break the Fast on Sunnah Foods

Provide dates and water first. The Prophet ﷺ used to break his fast with fresh dates, if not then dry dates, and if not then a few sips of water. [Sunan Abī Dāwūd, 2356 | Hasan]

4. Pray Maghrib First

Encourage guests to break their fast with dates and water, pray Maghrib in congregation, then return for the meal. 

5. Invite With Inclusivity

Include relatives, neighbors, the poor, and converts. Islam encourages feeding others, especially those in need.

6. Encourage Dhikr and Duʿā’

Remind everyone that the time of ifṭār is a moment when duʿā’ is accepted. Begin and end the meal with remembrance of Allah.

7. Avoid Wastefulness

Serve in moderation. Allah says: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils.” [Qur’an 17:27] Share leftovers with neighbors or those in need.

8. Make It a Family Effort

Involve children in setting the table, serving, or distributing food. This teaches them the joy of service and the blessings of Ramadan.

9. Practice Generosity Without Burden

Don’t overspend or stress yourself to impress guests. The Prophet ﷺ praised simplicity and disliked extravagance. Host according to your means, with sincerity.

10. Spread Joy With Moderation

Ramadan is a month of mercy. Use ifṭār gatherings to strengthen bonds, share reminders, and bring hearts closer—without turning it into excess or showing off.


Reflection

A Sunnah ifṭār isn’t about the length of the table but the depth of the barakah. Even a simple plate offered with sincerity brings immense reward. By keeping our ifṭār gatherings modest, mindful, and inclusive, we revive the Prophetic way and strengthen bonds of faith.