In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
The
fast is broken at sunset, and it is termed in Arabic iftar. It is a time of happiness and refreshment after experiencing the
pangs of hunger and thirst. It is usually broken with dates and in many cultures a light soup with bread or small side dishes.
Breaking the fast is followed immediately by the evening obligatory prayer. In many parts of the world, including the US,
breaking fast is observed in congregation in mosques and homes.
The Prophet (s) said: "Whosoever fasts experiences
two joys. He is joyful when he breaks his fast, and is joyful because of his fasting when he meets his Lord."
"When
evening approaches from this side (east) and the day retreats from this side (west) and the sun has set, the one who is fasting
breaks his fast." [Bukhari and Muslim]
"Break your fast with a date, or with water because it is pure." [Abu
Daud and Tirmidhi]