Is the keenness to eat an odd number of dates at all times of the year [Sunnah]?
The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, used to break his fast with fresh dates (rutab), and if he did not find them, then with dried dates (tamr). It is reported that he liked to break his fast with three dates or something that had not been touched by fire. It is also recommended to eat seven dates in the morning, based on his (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: "Whoever eats seven ajwa dates every morning will not be harmed by poison or magic on that day." In a narration by Muslim: "Whoever eats seven dates from what is between its two lava fields when he wakes up will not be harmed by poison until evening." Some scholars have opined that the benefit is not limited to dates from Madinah or ajwa dates only, but it is hoped that it includes all types of dates.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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