Iftar transcends simply eating after a day of fasting, acting as a cornerstone of family, community, unity, and gratitude fostering togetherness and bonds. This practice of gathering with family to break the fast strengthens relationships, encourages communication, particularly when many are separated by daily routines, like living outstations. My wife, Zarina & I could feel this challenge because our eldest granddaughter, Iffah is studying at a boarding school.
Iffah returned home for the first term semester break in conjunction with the Chinese New Year and the beginning of Ramadan month. She enjoyed eating Iftar & syahur (daily meals with the family before sun rise). Sharing specially prepared meals, often featuring traditional homemade dishes, strengthens our family ties. This daily act of preparing for Iftar & syahur together, such as setting the tables or preparing food - creates lasting, joyful memories for her siblings & parents. Involving her in the process helps them appreciate the effort involved in preparing food & understand the importance of the tradition.
In a boarding school environment, Iftar and syahur transcends mere nutrition, evolving into powerful communal rituals that build the “family away from home.” Sharing these meals with classmates strengthens the bonds of “sisterhood” & unity, as students from diverse backgrounds navigate the physical and spiritual challenges of fasting together. Iftar events in schools allow students to share their faith with peers, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect
Iffah revealed her unique experience at the boarding school that “The structured routine of waking for syahur, gathering for iftar reinforces self-discipline, patience, and time management skills essential for students. Experiencing hunger together fosters collective empathy for the less fortunate & encourages a shared spirit of charity within the student community. Communal prayers, especially Terawih, deepen our spiritual atmosphere and help the students to feel less alone while being far from home. Like most of the students, I look forward to fly back, and celebrate Hari Raya Eid Fitr with my family at home."
Zulkifly Baharom (hajizul50@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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