“Take the pre-dawn meal (suḥūr), for indeed there is blessing in the suḥūr.”

Narrated by al-Bukhārī (no. 1923) and Muslim (no. 1095), from the narration of Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him).

Brief Explanation of the Hadith

Fasting is among the greatest acts of worship emphasized in Islam, and the religion has prescribed means to help perform it in the best manner. Among these means is the encouragement to partake in the pre-dawn meal (suḥūr), as in the ḥadīth of Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him), in which the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Partake in the pre-dawn meal, for indeed there is blessing in the suḥūr.” This is a command to partake in suḥūr—the meal eaten before dawn by those intending to fast. It is a source of blessing due to the goodness it contains, as it strengthens one for worship, provides energy for fasting, and inspires vitality throughout the day. It also embodies adherence to the Sunnah, distinction from the People of the Book, and the seizing of the pre-dawn time—an hour of remembrance, supplication, and seeking forgiveness. Thus, suḥūr is truly a manifest blessing in both religion and worldly life. It is a confirmed Sunnah by consensus of the scholars, and a Muslim should not neglect it, even if it be with only a sip of water.