Importance of Suhoor in Ramadan

Ramadan is all about fasting and following the commands of Allah Almighty. Fasting is not just abstaining from eating or drinking but to refrain from all inappropriate activities for the sake of Allah (SWT). There are countless opportunities to take advantage of during this holy month and Muslims seek repentance for past sins as well as become more pious for getting closer to Allah Almighty. The act of fasting is not only filled with blessings and rewards but it is also a shield against sins and hell-fire in the hereafter. The significance of fasting is stated in hadith in these words: ‘Allah says: “Every good deed of Adam’s son is for him except fasting; it is for Me. And I shall reward (the fasting person) for it.’ Verily, the smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better to Allah than the smell of musk.”’ (Bukhari)

There are two important aspects of fasting: Suhur and Iftar that have great significance to Muslims. Allah, the Most Merciful has blessed us with two meals Suhur and Iftar during this holy month of fasting so we could recharge ourselves. Iftar and Suhoor are the most important meals of Ramadan and we should enlighten ourselves about the meals to reap the best out of it.

Muslims commences fast early morning at dawn just before the sunrise with a meal known as Suhoor. The Prophet (PBUH) told us about the blessings and virtue of Suhoor in these words: “Have Suhoor for verily there is a blessing in it.” (Abu Dawood)

An essential part of Suhoor is making the intention to fast. Having Suhoor is Sunnah and one must try hard to have Suhoor even if it includes some dates and a sip of water. “Whoever does not have the intention of fasting before Fajr, there is no fast for him.” (Ahmad)

Suhoor is the right time to eat up a meal and fill yourself adequately so that you can fast throughout the day. Suhoor is also a blessed time, the third part of the night and the best time to pray to Allah (SWT), make dua and seek forgiveness from Almighty Allah.

Dua for Suhur

بِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ

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