Iftar at the Grand Mosque: Scenes of brotherhood and unity during Ramadan
A scene of faith that is repeated in the heart of the Islamic world
As the sun sets each day of the holy month of Ramadan, the courtyards and arcades of the Grand Mosque in Mecca transform into the world's largest iftar table, a unique humanitarian scene embodying the highest ideals of Islamic brotherhood and unity. Millions of fasting Muslims from diverse nationalities, cultures, and ethnicities gather side by side in orderly rows stretching as far as the eye can see, all social and material differences dissolving, united only by the bond of faith and a shared purpose, awaiting the call to Maghrib prayer to break their fast together.
Historical background: A deeply rooted tradition of giving
Providing meals for those fasting in the Grand Mosque in Mecca is not a modern tradition, but rather a practice deeply rooted in Islamic history, inspired by the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in his encouragement to provide iftar (the meal to break the fast) for those observing the fast. Throughout the ages, philanthropists, the wealthy, and Islamic endowments have competed in offering iftar meals to visitors of the Sacred House of God, believing in the great reward and abundant blessings. These individual initiatives have evolved over time into a comprehensive institutional system overseen by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, in cooperation with governmental and charitable organizations and volunteers, to ensure that iftar meals reach millions of pilgrims with ease, convenience, and efficiency.
The importance of the event and its global impact
The significance of the iftar tables at the Grand Mosque transcends mere provision of food, becoming a powerful global message. Locally, these monumental efforts reflect the care and attention the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia dedicates to serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors, showcasing its remarkable organizational capacity to manage crowds and provide services to millions of pilgrims and worshippers. Internationally, the images of these tables, disseminated through global media, present a radiant image of Islam, a religion of compassion, solidarity, and peace. They convey to the world a vivid scene of human unity, where white sits beside black, rich beside poor, Arab beside non-Arab, in a reassuring tableau of faith that dispels negative stereotypes. This scene reinforces Mecca's position as the beating heart of the Islamic world and a beacon of peace and love.
Integrated system of services
Behind this awe-inspiring spiritual scene lies a meticulously integrated logistics and service system. Millions of light meals, typically consisting of dates, water, milk, and bread, are distributed within minutes of the call to prayer. Thousands of employees and volunteers participate in this process, working diligently to serve the pilgrims. The distribution also adheres to strict procedures to maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the place. The food is removed and the sites cleaned in record time immediately after the breaking of the fast, preparing the area for worshippers to perform the Maghrib prayer in an atmosphere of devotion, tranquility, and ease.
