Ramadhan is a month of fasting, worship, and deep spiritual reflection. It is also a time when acts of charity and generosity are greatly emphasized. Among the most virtuous deeds in this blessed month is feeding others, particularly those who are fasting. This practice is rooted in the teachings of The Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Sharing food with others carries immense rewards, purifies the soul, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and compassion within the Ummah.
Providing nourishing food, whether to the needy or those who are fasting, is an act of charity that is greatly emphasized in Islam. The Quran encourages believers to share food with others as an expression of faith and righteousness.
Allah (SWT) says in Surah Al-Insan, “…and give food—despite their desire for it—to the poor, the orphan, and the captive, saying to themselves, ‘We feed you only for the sake of Allah, seeking neither reward nor thanks from you.’” (The Clear Quran®, 76:8-9)
This verse highlights the pure intention behind feeding others—it should be done sincerely for the sake of Allah (SWT), without expecting anything in return.
The Prophet (SAW) said, “He who provides a fasting person with which to break his fast, will earn the same reward as the one who was observing the fast, without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi)
This hadith underscores the immense reward of feeding a fasting person, as it allows the one who provides the food to receive the same reward as the fasting person.
The Prophet (SAW) was known for his unmatched spirit of giving, and he increased his acts of charity during Ramadhan. Ibn Abbas described the generosity of the Prophet (SAW), “The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous during Ramadhan when Jibreel met him… When Jibreel met him, he was more generous in doing good than the blowing wind.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
His generosity included giving charity, providing food, and ensuring that others had enough to break their fast. Following his Sunnah, we should also strive to be more generous in Ramadhan, especially by feeding others.
Feeding those who are hungry is a great way to gain Allah (SWT)’s mercy and forgiveness, emphasized in the following hadith that describes feeding others as not only an act of kindness, but also a direct path to Jannah.
The Prophet (SAW) said, “O people! Spread peace, feed others, uphold family ties, and pray at night when people are asleep, and you will enter Paradise in peace.” (Sunan ibn Majah, 1334)
So, how can we implement the Sunnah of feeding others in Ramadhan? Here are some suggestions:
- Host iftar for family, friends, and neighbors. Sharing food strengthens bonds and increases love among Muslims.
- Provide meals for the poor. Many people struggle to afford food, and Ramadhan is a great time to help them.
- Contribute to masjid or charity iftar programs. A number of mosques and organizations arrange iftar meals for the needy.
- Give food baskets to struggling families. This allows them to have enough food for the entire month.
- Offer water and dates to those who are fasting. Even a small contribution like this can grant you immense rewards.
Feeding people in Ramadhan has several spiritual benefits:
- Earns immense rewards. The reward is equivalent to fasting without diminishing the fast itself.
- Increases barakah in one’s sustenance. Generosity leads to more provision from Allah (SWT).
- Strengthens brotherhood and unity. Sharing food fosters love and compassion in the community.
- Brings Allah (SWT)’s mercy and forgiveness. Acts of kindness lead to purification of sins.
- Following the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Practicing generosity is a way to emulate his noble character.
Feeding others in Ramadhan is one of the most rewarding acts a Muslim can do. Whether it is feeding the poor, providing iftar for fasting individuals, or simply sharing meals with neighbors, this noble deed carries immense rewards from Allah (SWT). The Quran and Sunnah emphasize its significance, promising both worldly blessings and eternal rewards.
As we continue to observe Ramadhan, let us strive to increase our generosity and earn the pleasure of Alalh (SWT) by feeding those in need. After all, the Prophet (SAW) said, “The best of you are those who feed others.” (Musnad Ahmad, 23926).
May Allah (SWT) grant us the ability to be among those who feed others sincerely for His sake and bless us with His mercy in this holy month. Ameen!