Ramadan is a time to reflect on the words of the Qur’an and give thanks for the blessings in our lives, including the food we so often take for granted. From the recitation on our lips to the flavours on our tongue, it is a time to taste the sweetness of the fruits of the Qur’an.
The Book of Allah provides spiritual healing for believers, a social remedy for society and even a physical cure for ailments. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“We reveal of the Qur’an that which is a healing and a mercy to the believers,” (Qur’an, 17:82).
The Qur’an should be recited beautifully and reflected on deeply, because like fasting, it will intercede for believers on the Day of Judgement. In Ramadan, it is recommended to read one part of the Qur’an every day and complete the recitation over 30 days. If that’s not possible, then read as much as you can with reflection, and if even that is too difficult, try to listen to it attentively.
“Truly, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest,” (Qur’an, 13:28)
The Qur’an mentions a number of fruits as examples of the bounties of Allah on earth, as well as some that are promised to the believers in paradise.
“[He] who made for you the earth a bed and the sky a ceiling and sent down from the sky, rain and brought forth fruits as provision for you,” (Qur’an, 2:22).
As we give thanks for the foods we are blessed with at Suhur and Iftar, remember to include some of the fruits of the Qur’an in your Ramadan diet:
Dates: Mentioned in the Qur’an 20 times, dates are packed with energy and provide an instant source of nutrition. Allah(swt) told Maryam (as) to eat them during childbirth and the Prophet (pbuh) recommended we break our fast with them. Have an odd number of dates immediately for Iftar and while you pray Maghrib they will prepare your body for the rest of your meal and also prevent overeating.
Olives: The Qur’an mentions the olive as ‘a blessed tree,’ and it is also a fruit that Allah takes an oath by. Olives contain high levels of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and healthy fats that help prevent heart disease and other illnesses. Have fresh olives on the Iftar table or drizzle a tablespoon or two of extra virgin olive oil onto your food, ideally as a substitute for unhealthy fats.
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Pomegranates: A fruit mentioned in the Qur’an three times, the pomegranate is also one of the fruits of heaven. The Prophet (pbuh) said pomegranates strengthen digestion. They contain antioxidants, are rich in vitamins C and K, and have numerous other health benefits. Have a handful at Suhur to increase the nutritional value of your early morning meal.
Figs: The 95th Surah of the Qur’an is named At-Tin, The Fig, and it is a fruit that Allah takes an oath by. The Prophet (pbuh) also recommended eating figs. They are an excellent source of fibre, which helps promote a healthy digestive function, and contain many minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Include fresh or dried figs as part of your Suhur and among other health benefits, they will prevent constipation during your fasting day.
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