Much to know about dates (1)
Dates fruit are associated with fasting & the month of Ramadan. The nutritious fruits are not only the start of iftar meals but also a part of many desserts prepared during the holy month. Dates are an indispensable part of Ramadan food.
- Dates are the fruit of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) tree, which is most widely cultivated in the Middle East, North Africa, Central Africa, Southern Asia, and Southeast Asia.
2. Historians believe that dates are one of the ancient fruits and their cultivation traces back to around 8,000 years ago. There are more than 200 varieties of dates with different shapes and flavours, however, all of them are rich in nutrition.
3. Dates are a popular food item, not just in the Middle East but all over the world. They have amazing nutritional properties and just a few dates can keep you energised for hours; one of the many reasons people buy them.
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4. The popularity of dates reaches its peak in Ramadan when Muslims worldwide buy kilos worth of dates for their homes. It is the preferred food item of choice to break the fast. There are different types of dates & their benefits range from amazing taste to improving health.
5. Dates or the date palm are mentioned in the Qur’an 22 times, which is more than any other fruit tree, so we know their significance is rooted deep in Islam. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) knew of their benefits & greatly enjoyed eating them & encouraged those around him to do the same.
6. The date was one of Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) favourite and most desired food items. For this reason, many Muslims today consume dates not just during Ramadan but throughout the year, regarding the fruit as part of the blessed prophetic diet.
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7. For Muslims, adopting the habits and practices, or Sunnah, of the Prophet Muhammed (ﷺ), is regarded as something praiseworthy and blessed. This is why Muslims consume dates during Ramadan and throughout the year.
Culled from Bayt Al Fann
