Blessings, Health, and Spirituality**

#### **Introduction:**
Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) is a confirmed Prophetic tradition highly recommended in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Partake in Suhoor, for indeed there is blessing in it” (Bukhari and Muslim). This blessed meal is not merely a Ramadan custom but an act of worship encompassing multiple spiritual and health benefits.

#### **Religious and Spiritual Significance:**

1. **Following the Prophetic Tradition:** Suhoor distinguishes Muslim fasting from that of People of the Book
2. **Attaining Blessings (Barakah):** As mentioned in the Hadith, encompassing blessings in sustenance, health, and time
3. **Preparation for Worship:** Strengthening the body for prayers, Quran recitation, and night prayers (Taraweeh)
4. **Time of Answered Prayers:** The pre-dawn hours are among the times when supplications are accepted

#### **Health and Scientific Benefits:**

1. **Energy Supply:** Extends fasting endurance and reduces fatigue
2. **Blood Sugar Regulation:** Prevents severe hypoglycemia during fasting hours
3. **Hydration Maintenance:** Reduces thirst sensation the following day
4. **Enhanced Mental Performance:** Supports concentration and productivity
5. **Headache Prevention:** Avoids headaches caused by low blood sugar or dehydration

#### **Tips for a Healthy and Balanced Suhoor:**

– **Delay Suhoor:** As recommended by the Prophet: “The distinction between our fasting and that of the People of the Book is the meal of Suhoor”
– **Focus on Complex Carbohydrates:** Whole wheat bread, oats, bulgur
– **Healthy Proteins:** Eggs, cheese, chickpeas, yogurt
– **Beneficial Fats:** Avocado, nuts, olive oil
– **Fruits and Vegetables:** Rich sources of fiber and vitamins
– **Avoid Salty and Fried Foods:** Which increase thirst during daytime

#### **Suhoor as a Social Worship:**

1. **Strengthening Family Bonds:** Family gathering around one table before dawn
2. **Remembrance and Supplication:** Utilizing this blessed time for collective worship
3. **Social Solidarity:** Ensuring neighbors and relatives, especially elders, have Suhoor

#### **Recommended Suhoor Foods:**

– Dates and water (following the Prophet’s tradition)
– Slow-digesting foods like legumes
– Yogurt and laban to aid digestion
– Fruits such as bananas and apples

#### **Conclusion:**
Suhoor is not merely a meal for satiety but an Islamic ritual combining worship and health. By consistently having a balanced and delayed Suhoor, the fasting person achieves spiritual and health benefits that help complete the fast with vitality and high spirits, while intending to follow the Sunnah and attain divine blessings.