In Islam, suhoor is the pre-dawn meal that Muslims consume before starting their fast during the holy month of Ramadan. It is an important meal as it provides nourishment and energy for the long day of fasting ahead. The time for suhoor ends at true dawn, also known as ṣubḥ ṣādiq, which is the time when the first light appears on the horizon before sunrise.
Once the time for suhoor ends, it is not permissible to continue eating or drinking. This is because the fast is meant to be observed from the time of true dawn until sunset, and any consumption of food or drink during this period invalidates the fast. It is essential to be aware of the precise timing of suhoor and to stop eating and drinking before it ends.
One way to determine the end of suhoor is by referring to the Islamic prayer times. The azan (call to prayer) for Fajr Salah (the pre-dawn prayer) is given once the time for Fajr, or the start of dawn, begins. This serves as an indication that suhoor time has come to an end. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the azan and refrain from eating or drinking once it is announced.
If someone continues to eat or drink after the azan for Fajr Salah, their fast for that day would not be considered valid according to Islamic teachings. It is crucial to be mindful of the timing and to adhere to the guidelines set forth in order to observe a valid fast during Ramadan.
It is worth mentioning that different regions and communities may have slight variations in the timing of suhoor and the azan for Fajr Salah. Therefore, it is advisable to consult local Islamic authorities or refer to reliable Islamic calendars to determine the precise timing for suhoor and the end of eating.
Once the time for suhoor ends at true dawn, it is not permissible to eat or drink until the fast is broken at sunset. The azan for Fajr Salah serves as a reminder that suhoor time has come to an end, and any consumption of food or drink after it would invalidate the fast. It is important to be mindful of the timing and to observe the fast according to the guidelines set forth in Islam.