During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide aim to enhance their good deeds to earn greater rewards. Offering food, or Iftar, to the needy is one of the most rewarding acts. Community Iftars play a crucial role in assisting the less fortunate. By providing them with nourishing meals, we not only offer nutrition but also extend a sense of warmth and compassion, developing unity and empathy within our communities.

Reward of feeding the poor

In Ramadan, every good deed brings greater rewards, multiplied many times over. When you feed a hungry person, it’s as though you’re fasting yourself, and the blessings of your fasts are multiplied. The Prophet (PBUH) 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.”   (Al-Tirmidhi)

This is also an ideal opportunity to engage your children, even if they are not fasting themselves. Educate your kids about the spiritual rewards associated with Ramadan by involving them in setting the table or assisting in meal preparation for Iftar. Additionally, you can encourage them to contribute a portion of their pocket money towards feeding those in need during this blessed month. This instills a sense of empathy, generosity, and active participation in the spirit of Ramadan, fostering their spiritual growth and understanding.

Freedom from hell fire

Assisting someone in breaking their fast not only yields abundant rewards but also serves as a shield for us against the flames of fire on the Day of Judgement, ensuring eternal blessings.

The messenger of Allah, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Whoever provides Iftar for a fasting person in Ramadan, then that shall be a forgiveness for his minor sins and freedom from hell fire.”

Creating a sense of unity:

During Ramadan, Muslims traditionally organize grand Iftar gatherings for their neighbors and families. These gatherings foster unity, providing a platform for everyone to join together, enjoy delicious meals, exchange daily life updates, and collectively perform the Maghrib prayer, enriching the spiritual bond among participants.

Numerous families take the noble initiative of preparing abundant meals and distributing them throughout the entire community, exemplifying the spirit of generosity and solidarity during this blessed month.

Mosque Iftars:

Across the nation, numerous mosques extend their generosity by offering free Iftars throughout the month, providing delicious food and refreshing drinks to those in need. These mosques warmly welcome people from diverse religions and communities, opening their doors in the evening to develop a sense of unity and communal dining.

Something is better than nothing

For those of us who lack the means to organize elaborate Iftars and cater to large crowds throughout the month, there is still an opportunity to earn abundant rewards. Even small efforts can make a significant difference. It is better to do whatever is within our capability to feed the hungry and earn blessings, as something is always better than nothing in the eyes of Allah.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said:

‘(O people!) Save yourselves from the fire even if it is with half a date, and if you cannot find that, then (save yourselves by saying) a good word’. [Muslim]

Encourage cultural awareness

Arranging a communal Iftar presents a wonderful opportunity to promote cultural awareness and understanding within your workplace. It provides a platform for non-Muslim employees to deepen their understanding of Ramadan, its significance, and the customs observed during this sacred time. Such initiatives can effectively dismantle cultural barriers, foster stronger connections, and build bridges among team members.

 

In conclusion, organizing community Iftars serves as a meaningful avenue to unite people, foster relationships, and cultivate a sense of unity within our community. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in promoting cultural awareness and understanding among people of different cultures, showcasing a commitment to diversity and inclusion. By joining together to partake in this experience, we not only reinforce our bonds but also celebrate the diversity of cultures.