As Muslims across Indonesia observe Ramadan, the schedule for Imsak and Buka Puasa on Sunday, March 23, 2025, plays a crucial role in guiding the daily prayers and fasting rituals. This holy month, marking Day 23, continues to emphasize the spiritual significance of fasting and prayer intentions, enriching the community's commitment to their faith.
For the city of Ambon, the daily routine starts with the Imsak time at 05:00 WIB, leading to the Subuh prayer at 05:10 WIB. The schedule continues with Dzuhur at 12:37 WIB, Asar at 15:44 WIB, and Maghrib, signifying the moment for breaking the fast, at 18:40 WIB. Finally, the Isya prayer is conducted at 19:48 WIB. This same schedule applies uniformly across various cities including Padangsidempuan, Pematangsiantar, Sibolga, Tanjungbalai, and Tebing Tinggi in Sumatera Utara.
In Denpasar, the situation is similar. The fast starts with Imsak at 05:05 WIB and the Buka Puasa time coincides with the setting sun at 18:40 WIB. The underscoring emphasis on the prayer niat, or intention, remains consistent. Every Muslim must declare their niat (intention) to fast the night before, as per teachings that make the fasting valid. Imam Nawawi in his commentary clarifies, "It is invalid to fast Ramadan or other obligatory fasting without intention made at night."
Additionally, a notable point shared across several regions is the emphasis on the tradition of sahur—a pre-dawn meal that believers are encouraged to partake in. Prophet Muhammad highlighted the blessings of sahur, stating, "Bersahurlah, karena di dalamnya ada keberkahan," which means, "Partake in sahur; there is a blessing in it." This practice not only prepares believers for the day of fasting but enhances their spiritual endeavor.
Moving to the rituals surrounding the breaking of the fast, Muslims commonly recite prayers before they eat. Two versions are often recounted. One is attributed to Abdullah bin Umar, which expresses gratitude and anticipation of reward, while the alternative is recounted from Mu'adz bin Zuhroh. Both versions encapsulate the essence of breaking the fast—a moment of reflection and gratitude to God for providing sustenance.
On this particular day, different regions outline specific prayer times. In Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai, the schedule specifies Imsak at 05:03 WIB and Maghrib at 18:39 WIB. Similarly, in Kabupaten Pati, fasting begins with an Imsak time of 05:03 WIB, recognizing the communal effort of maintaining adherence to the holy month.
As the sun sets, eagerly anticipated by all, the traditional practice of breaking fast typically begins with dates. The ritual connects back to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad, who said, "If one of you breaks the fast, let him do so with dates; if he cannot find dates, then with water, for it is purifying." This longstanding tradition anchors practical actions with faith, enhancing the spiritual experience of Ramadan.
Moreover, the significance of keeping the fast—an obligation rooted in the teachings of Islam—is powerfully expressed in the Quran. As stated in Surah Al-Baqarah, "O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous." (Qur'an 2:183). This directive not only illustrates the continuity of faith but reinforces the devotion and compliance expected from practicing Muslims.
Every day during Ramadan emphasizes not just the physical abstinence from food and drink but a dedication to spiritual replenishment and community. As Muslims gather to break their fasts in groups, the essence of solidarity is found in the collective practices during this holy month, whether in a mosque setting or among family and friends.
The diverse regions of Indonesia display unity in their schedules and practices, all while embracing the spiritual teachings that guide their actions. From early morning prayers to communal iftars at sunset, these routines not only mark the days of Ramadan but serve as a reminder of the core values and principles of Islam: community, gratitude, service, and faith.
As we embrace this season of reflection, prayer, and community, the commitment to uphold these values during Ramadan resounds within the heart of each believer. The rhythm of daily prayers paired with the joy of shared meals signifies a month unlike any other, revered for its religious and social significance.
With this understanding, Muslims are poised not just to fulfill an obligation but to enrich their lives and the lives of those around them during these holy days. Planned mindfulness, intent in prayers, and the sense of community tie every act of worship to the intrinsic features of Ramadan as believers seek to attain both spiritual upliftment and deeper connections with loved ones.
