Want To Attend An Iftar But Unsure How To? Here Is The Iftar Etiquette To Follow
The Holy Month of Ramadan is here and along with a heightened focus on spirituality and charity, another thing this month brings along is an emphasis on togetherness and community. Iftar signifies the breaking of the fast that Muslims who observe the Holy Month participate in, from dawn to dusk. Chances are, this month, you will field multiple Iftar invitations from your workplace and/or your near and dear ones.
If you're unsure of the etiquette of the party or the unwritten rules associated with a typical Iftar, have no fear. Here are a set of tips you could keep in mind before attending your next Iftar.
Stay Informed
Acquainting yourself with a brand-new culture can always be unnerving. Here is where a little research would do you great good. If you are largely unaware or unfamiliar about the Holy Month of Ramadan and its significance, make sure to read up about it beforehand both to avoid unintentional faux-pas at the event and also as a means of honouring your host who has been kind enough to invite you. It will also serve to make you more knowledgeable and will expand your horizon.
Wear Modest Clothing
Islam is a religion that places great emphasis on modesty and simple living. While attending an Iftar, make sure that your dress code adheres to and respects those around you. Pick out items from your wardrobe that are loose, flowy, and not too revealing.
Arrive Ahead of Time
The Iftar coincides with the evening call for prayer for Muslims. Participating Muslims break their fast when they hear the call for prayer. Therefore, the party is highly time-bound. Make sure that you inform yourself of the timing of the Adhan (call for prayer) which are subject to change and arrive in time for the fast-breaking.
Bring a Gift (Optional)
While it is not mandated to bring a gift to an Iftar party, a small present has hurt no one. To honour those who have invited you to the party, you could bring with you a gift to the Iftar. This could either be a dish to add to the Iftar table or an item that you know your host will enjoy. Note: Make sure that your gift does not contain alcohol or other items prohibited for Muslims.
Bring a Prayer Mat (If You Wish to Pray)
Breaking the fast at Iftar is immediately followed by the evening prayers (Maghrib and Tharaveeh) – which you may do either at home or at a nearby mosque. If you are a Muslim and want to partake in the prayer, make sure to carry a prayer mat with you to facilitate the process.
Abstain from Drinking and Smoking
Drinking alcohol and smoking are strictly prohibited activities in Islam. Which is why, it is mandatory that you refrain from partaking in these activities while at an Iftar party.
Enjoy the Food
Each Iftar is a joyous occasion as it marks the end of that respective day's fast. Make sure to dig into the spread laid before you without any hesitation and choose the items you desire. Make sure that the host knows your dietary preferences beforehand. While there is no order as to which food to eat first, Muslims typically break their fast with a date. You could follow this practice or try out a different item. An Iftar spread would typically include various snacks, fruits, salads, fruit juices and non-alcoholic beverages, etc.
Being invited to an Iftar is a great way to take a peek into a culture that is different from yours. It is a marker of friendship and connection and one that ought to be enjoyed whole-heartedly with your hosts while also being respectful and aware of the rules and rituals associated with the Holy Month.
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