Shia Muslims open their fast later than Sunni Muslims due to differing interpretations regarding the end of the day during Ramadan.
Different Jurisprudential Understandings
The core difference stems from two separate jurisprudential understandings of when sunset occurs, as highlighted in the provided reference:
| Aspect | Sunni View | Shia View |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset Definition | Sunset is defined as the moment the sun completely disappears below the horizon. | Sunset is defined not just by the sun disappearing, but by the complete disappearance of the red glow on the eastern horizon. |
| Iftar Time | Iftar (the breaking of the fast) is permissible immediately after the sun sets below the horizon. | Iftar is permissible after the disappearance of the red glow in the sky on the eastern horizon. |
| Time Difference | The fast is opened as soon as the sun disappears from the horizon. | This can mean waiting approximately 15 to 20 minutes after the sun has disappeared below the horizon, to ensure that the red glow has faded from the eastern sky before eating. |
Practical Implication
- The difference in interpretation is the reason that you'll find a time variation between Sunni and Shia Iftar timings.
- Shia Muslims take an extra precaution, waiting those extra few minutes to be absolutely sure that the sun has completely set according to their school of thought.
- This distinction is a matter of religious observance rather than any difference in core beliefs regarding the fast itself.
Conclusion
This time difference in breaking the fast results solely from the differing jurisprudential interpretations of sunset, impacting the precise timing of Iftar during Ramadan.
