How Long after Sunset in Ramadan the Congregation Should Stand (the Practice of the Elders)

Question

(1) In Ramadan, after sunset, what is the minimum and maximum number of minutes by which the congregational prayer may be delayed, that is, how many minutes should be set aside for iftar? Here in Britain there is constant disagreement in most places about the prayer after iftar: some say that one should take a brief iftar and then stand for the prayer, others say that one should break the fast as one wishes.

Answer

(1) In the “Daily Routine” of Hazrat Thanawi ﵀ it is stated: “In Ramadan he usually breaks his fast in the madrasa together with the guests. The adhan is called at the beginning of the time, exactly on time; having broken the fast unhurriedly, washed his hands and rinsed his mouth, he stands for the prayer calmly and at ease.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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