Does Iftar change time?

Answered by Joseph Sanjuan

Iftar does change time during the Holy month of Ramadan. As a Muslim, I have experienced this change firsthand. The timing of Iftar is based on the sunset, which marks the beginning of Maghrib prayer. Each day, the time of sunset varies slightly due to changes in day length. This means that the time of Iftar also changes as the month progresses.

At the beginning of Ramadan, Iftar tends to occur relatively early in the evening, as the days are shorter. This allows for a shorter fasting period before breaking the fast. However, as the month goes on, the days gradually become longer, and the time of Iftar becomes later.

Living in the UK, I have noticed a significant difference in the timing of Iftar between the beginning and end of Ramadan. In the early days of the month, Iftar may be around 8:30 pm, for example, while by the end of Ramadan, it could be closer to 9:30 pm or even later.

This change in Iftar time can have an impact on daily routines and meal preparations. As the time gets later, there is less time between Iftar and Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins again) which means a shorter window for eating and drinking. It can also affect social gatherings and family meals, as people adjust their schedules to accommodate the changing timing of Iftar.

It’s important to note that the exact time of Iftar can vary depending on geographical location, as well as differences in the interpretation of Islamic teachings. Some Muslims may choose to follow local sunset times, while others may rely on official religious authorities or astronomical calculations.

To keep track of the changing Iftar times, many Muslims use prayer timetables or mobile applications that provide accurate sunset timings for their specific location. This helps ensure that the fast is broken at the correct time each day.

The timing of Iftar does change during Ramadan due to the variation in sunset times. It is a unique aspect of this blessed month that adds to the spiritual and physical challenges of fasting, while also bringing communities together to break their fasts and share in the blessings of Ramadan.