fasting and fiqh
What is the difference between sawm and iftar in terms of timing and intention?
Sawm: the act of fasting
Iftar: the meal to break it at sunset
Sawn requires niyyah, intention before fajr
In which year after Hijrah was fasting in Ramadan made obligatory?
2 AH
Which surah mentions fasting being prescribed?
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183
What is a common street food eaten for Iftar in Pakistan that’s deep-fried and filled with potatoes or lentils?
samosa
How did the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) break his fast?
With fresh dates; if not available, then dry dates; if none, then water
If someone eats forgetfully during fasting, does their fats break?
No, the fast remains valid
What major battle in Islamic history occurred during Ramadan?
The Battle of Badr
What is one of the names of the Qur’an that reflects its role in guidance?
Al-Furqan (The Criterion)
What special drink is almost always served at Iftar tables in Pakistan, known for its sweet and tangy taste?
Rooh Afza or Tang mixed with water and sugar
What is the Sunnah regarding the timing of Suhoor?
To delay it until shortly before Fajr
What is the ruling on using eye drops or injections during fast? Does the fast break?
Eye drops are permitted Non nutritive injections are allowed
Which Prophet is associated with fasting for 40 days, mentioned in the Qur’an?
Prophet Musa (Moses), peace be upon him
What are the signs of Laylat al-Qadr as described in Hadith?
peaceful night, not too hot or cold, and the sun rises the next day without harsh rays.
In Fiji, what is one unique tradition practiced by the Muslim community during Ramadan evenings?
Gathering at the masjid for Taraweeh followed by light refreshments and socializing as a community
What was the Prophet’s (PBUH) routine during the last 10 nights of Ramadan?
He would engage in I’tikaf, stay up in worship, and wake his family for prayer
Can a person combine the intention for making up a missed fast with a Sunnah fast (like Mondays or Ashura)?
No
intentions for obligatory and voluntary fasts cannot be combined. Each type requires its own niyyah (intention), especially when making up missed Ramadan fasts.
Which Islamic empire first established official public Iftar tents?
The Ottoman Empire
Which surah was revealed entirely in Ramadan?
Surah Al-Qadr
What is the name of the dish made with chickpeas that is a staple on Pakistani Iftar tables?
Chana Chaat (spicy chickpea salad)
What is the du’a for Laylat al-Qadr that the Prophet recommended to Aisha (RA)?
Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me)
What is the kaffarah (expiation) for deliberately breaking a fast without a valid excuse?
Fasting 60 days, or feeding 60 people
Name one historical scholar who would pause all activities except Qur’an recitation during Ramadan.
Imam Shafi’i or Imam Malik
Which verse indicates the Qur’an was revealed in Ramadan?
Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 185
In both Pakistani and Fijian cultures, what is emphasized at Iftar beyond just food?
Generosity, community gatherings, and ensuring neighbors and the less fortunate are fed
Which companion narrated most of the hadiths related to fasting?
Abu Huraira (RA)