What Should Be Done When Breaking the Fast: What Is Supplication (dua)?
Breaking our fasts during the month of Ramadan is a spiritual responsibility. Knowing the meaning and importance of the iftar supplication helps us make this sacred moment more meaningful.
Supplication to Be Recited Before Breaking the Fast (Recitation)
اَللّٰهُمَّ لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ اٰمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَعَلٰى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ
The Meaning of the Supplication for Breaking the Fast
“O Allah! For You I have fasted, in You I have believed, upon You I have relied (tawakkul), and with Your provision I have broken my fast.” With this supplication, we seek refuge in our Lord. The iftar supplication also explains the spiritual dimension of fasting.
The Importance of Intention (niyyah)
With the phrase “اَللّٰهُمَّ لَكَ صُمْتُ”, we declare that we fast with a sincere intention, free from ostentation. Fasting is not only an opportunity to purify the body, but also the qalb (the heart).
The Foundation of Iman (faith)
With “وَبِكَ اٰمَنْتُ”, we emphasize that the foundation of acts of worship is iman (faith). Acts of worship such as prayer and fasting should be performed not only for bodily health, but as a requirement of iman (faith). The strength of iman (faith) increases the spiritual value of worship.
The Importance of Tawakkul (reliance upon God)
With the phrase “وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ”, we confess our weakness and submit to the power of our Lord. Tawassul (seeking means) ensures that we turn only to Allah and adds spiritual strength to our acts of worship.
Becoming Conscious of Provision (rizq)
With “وَعَلٰى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ”, we express in our hearts the awareness of turning to the Provider (ar-Razzāq) more than to the provision itself. Knowing that provision comes from Allah increases our sense of shukr (gratitude) towards Him.