Hadith Text & Reference

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "How good is the believers meal of dates shortly before dawn."

Book: Fasting (Kitab Al-Siyam)

Author: Sunan Abi Dawud

Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 2345

Commentary on the Excellence of Suhur

This noble hadith highlights the virtue of taking the pre-dawn meal (suhur) during Ramadan. The Prophet's rhetorical question "How good..." indicates the excellence and blessing inherent in this practice, particularly when consisting of dates.

Dates are specifically mentioned due to their numerous benefits: they provide sustained energy, are easily digestible, contain natural sugars for immediate nourishment, and are blessed foods mentioned repeatedly in the Quran.

Spiritual Significance

The timing "shortly before dawn" emphasizes the distinction between Islamic fasting and previous forms of asceticism. It demonstrates the moderation of this Ummah, where believers are encouraged to strengthen themselves for worship rather than weaken through excessive deprivation.

Calling it "the believers meal" indicates that this practice distinguishes the Muslim community and strengthens the bond of brotherhood among those observing the fast together.

Practical Wisdom

Scholars explain that even a small amount of food or drink suffices for suhur to obtain its blessing. The meal facilitates daytime fasting, makes worship easier, and helps avoid the weakness that might lead to neglecting duties.

This hadith encourages Muslims to partake in suhur regardless of quantity, following the Sunnah and seeking the blessings Allah has placed in this pre-dawn meal for the fasting believer.