Ramadan 2024: What is Sehri? All You Need To Know

Ramadan 2024: Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar is just around the corner, and for Muslims around the world, it's a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion. In 2024, Ramadan is set to begin on March 11 following the sighting of the moon over Mecca. Lasting for 30 days, Ramadan will end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, with the celebratory days of Eid al-Fitr starting on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, or Monday, April 11, 2024, depending on the moon sighting.

One of the key aspects of Ramadan is the observance of Sehri, also known as Suhoor, which is the pre-dawn meal that Muslims consume before the Fajr (dawn) prayer. In this article, we'll explore what Sehri is, why it's important, and how you can make the most of this special time.

Ramadan 2024: What is Sehri?

Sehri is the meal that Muslims consume before the start of the daily fast during Ramadan. It is typically eaten in the early hours of the morning, before the Fajr prayer, which marks the beginning of the fast for the day. The meal is intended to provide sustenance and energy for the day ahead, as well as to help maintain the physical and spiritual strength needed to observe the fast.

Ramadan 2024: Why is Sehri important?

Sehri is an important part of the Ramadan experience for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for Muslims to come together as a community and share a meal before the day's fast begins. This communal aspect of Sehri helps to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims, as they come together to break their fasts and support one another in their spiritual journey.

Secondly, Sehri is also an opportunity for Muslims to engage in acts of worship and devotion before the start of the fast. Many Muslims use this time to recite the Quran, offer supplications, and engage in other acts of worship, which helps to prepare them mentally and spiritually for the day ahead.

Finally, Sehri is important from a practical standpoint, as it provides the necessary nourishment and hydration that Muslims need to sustain themselves throughout the day. By consuming a balanced meal before the fast begins, Muslims can ensure that they have the energy and strength needed to carry out their daily activities and fulfill their religious obligations.

How to make the most of Sehri

To make the most of Sehri, it's important to consume a balanced and nutritious meal that provides the necessary energy and sustenance for the day ahead. This means including a variety of foods from different food groups, such as grains, protein, fruits, and vegetables. It's also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.

In addition to focusing on the nutritional aspect of Sehri, it's also important to use this time for spiritual reflection and devotion. This can include reciting the Quran, offering supplications, and engaging in other acts of worship. By combining the physical and spiritual aspects of Sehri, Muslims can make the most of this special time and strengthen their connection with Allah.

Foods to Eat During Sehri:

Complex Carbohydrates:

High-carb foods such as bread, rice, and potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly and help maintain high energy levels.

Fibrous Fruits and Whole Grains:

During Sehri, it's beneficial to include fruits such as bananas, apples, and apricots, as well as grains like barley, chickpeas, and oats in your meal. These foods are rich in fiber, which helps you feel fuller for longer and can also aid in preventing constipation. However, it's important not to overindulge, as consuming too much food can lead to increased thirst. It's best to limit your intake to a moderate amount.

Protein-Rich Foods:

Sneak proteins in the form of eggs, chicken, yogurt, lentils, etc. Proteins will help you keep active and your energy leveled up.

Hydrating Foods and Drinks:

Coconut water, cucumbers, pineapple, tomatoes, oranges, and ample water intake will help you stay energised and hydrated throughout the day.

Foods to Avoid During Sehri:

Spicy and Masaledar Foods:

They will only cause heartburn and indigestion.

Excessive Caffeine:

Avoid having too many cups of tea and coffee as the caffeine leads to loss of water and increases thirst.

Salty Foods:

Keep away from salty foods that may dehydrate you.

Sugary Foods:

Do not eat too many sugary foods, as they digest quickly, further making you feel hungry.

Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.