Ramadan Fasting Times: When to Start and Break Your Fast

Fasting during Ramadan, known as Sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). Understanding the correct fasting times is essential for fulfilling this sacred obligation accurately. While the spiritual essence of Ramadan remains universal, fasting times can vary depending on your location due to differences in sunrise and sunset times.

This guide explains when to start and break your fast, the significance of Suhoor and Iftar, and how to manage fasting times effectively during Ramadan.

When Does Fasting Start During Ramadan?

Fasting begins at dawn (Fajr), which is the time of the first light appearing on the horizon before sunrise. The pre-dawn meal, known as Suhoor, must be completed before this time.

Key Points to Remember:

• Suhoor Timing: Suhoor should be eaten before the Fajr Adhan (call to prayer). Once the Fajr prayer time starts, fasting officially begins, and no food or drink should be consumed.
• Fajr Prayer: This prayer marks the beginning of the fast. It’s the first of the five daily prayers in Islam and is observed shortly after the Suhoor meal.

Tip: Set an alarm at least 30 minutes before Fajr to give yourself enough time for Suhoor and preparation for prayer.

When Can You Break Your Fast? (Iftar Timing)

Fasting ends at sunset (Maghrib), which is marked by the Maghrib Adhan. This is the time to break your fast with the evening meal, known as Iftar.

Traditions for Breaking the Fast:

• Breaking Fast with Dates and Water: It is Sunnah (the tradition of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) to break the fast with fresh dates and water. If dates are unavailable, water alone is sufficient.
• Maghrib Prayer: After breaking the fast with light food and water, Muslims perform the Maghrib prayer before enjoying a full Iftar meal.

Understanding Prayer Timings and Fasting Hours

The fasting schedule aligns closely with the five daily prayers:

1. Fajr (Dawn): Marks the start of the fast.
2. Dhuhr (Midday): Prayer after the sun passes its zenith.
3. Asr (Afternoon): Late afternoon prayer.
4. Maghrib (Sunset): Time to break the fast.
5. Isha (Evening): Night prayer, followed by additional Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan.

Variations in Fasting Hours:

Fasting hours vary based on:

• Geographical Location: Countries closer to the equator have more consistent fasting times, while regions in the far north or south experience longer or shorter fasting hours due to seasonal daylight variations.
• Time of Year: Since Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, it shifts about 10–11 days earlier each year, causing fasting hours to vary annually.

Example:

• In Sydney, Australia, fasting hours might range from 12–14 hours.
• In regions like Norway during summer, daylight can last up to 20 hours, requiring scholars’ guidance on managing fasting times.

What If You Miss the Fasting Time?

• Starting Late: If you accidentally eat past Fajr time, your fast is invalid, and you will need to make up for it (Qada) after Ramadan.
• Breaking Early: If you mistakenly break your fast before Maghrib, the fast is invalid and must be compensated later.
• Unintentional Mistakes: If you break your fast unintentionally (e.g., forgetting you were fasting), your fast remains valid according to Islamic teachings.

How to Determine Accurate Fasting Times

• Islamic Calendars: Most mosques and Islamic centres provide Ramadan timetables with daily Suhoor and Iftar times specific to your region.
• Prayer Apps: Apps like Muslim Pro, IslamicFinder, and others offer accurate prayer and fasting times based on your location.
• Local Mosques: Always verify with your local mosque, especially in regions with complex daylight patterns.

Sunnah Practices for Suhoor and Iftar

Following the Sunnah (traditions of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) enhances the spiritual rewards of fasting.

For Suhoor:

• Eat Suhoor Even if Light: The Prophet said, “Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
• Delay Suhoor: It’s recommended to delay Suhoor until just before Fajr.

For Iftar:

• Hasten to Break the Fast: The Prophet said, “The people will continue to prosper as long as they hasten to break the fast.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
• Make Dua Before Breaking the Fast: A common supplication is:
  “Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu wa ‘ala rizqika-aftartu”
  (O Allah! I fasted for You, and I believe in You, and I put my trust in You, and with Your sustenance, I break my fast.)

Tips for Managing Fasting Hours

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink water consistently between Iftar and Suhoor to prevent dehydration.
2. Avoid Heavy Meals at Suhoor: Opt for complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and hydrating fruits.
3. Rest Strategically: Short naps during the day can help manage energy levels, especially during longer fasting hours.
4. Stay Connected: Sharing Iftar with family or the community can make fasting more fulfilling.

Support ARO’s Ramadan Initiatives

As we gather for Suhoor and Iftar, let’s remember those who struggle to find even a simple meal. At ARO, we are committed to providing Iftar meals, clean water, and essential support to vulnerable communities during Ramadan.

Your generosity can make a difference. Donate Now to help us share the blessings of Ramadan with those in need.

Together, we can ensure that no one breaks their fast alone.

Related Project: Hunger Relief