What Are the Basic Rules of Fasting in Ramadan?
During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and spousal relations from sunrise to sunset each day. Fasting, or Sawm in Arabic, is one of the five Pillars of Islam and is intended to remove worldly distractions so a person can devote themselves more deeply to their faith, learning patience and compassion for others along the way. It represents devotion to Allah and an opportunity to refine one's character over the course of the year.
Who Is Exempt From Fasting in Ramadan?
There are rules and regulations that accompany the daily fast. The Qur'an reminds us that no obligation is placed on anyone beyond their capacity:
“Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear…”
Exemptions from the fast are given to those who are ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, menstruating, elderly, or travelling. In these cases, any missed fasting days can be made up throughout the rest of the year.
Does Fasting Mean More Than Just Not Eating or Drinking?
Fasting is not only about abstaining from food and drink; Muslims are also expected to avoid other ills such as smoking, swearing and impure or evil thoughts. The fast is an act of personal worship intended to bring a Muslim closer to Allah (SWT). The Prophet (SAW) said:
"Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink." [Bukhari]
“Every act of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting. It is (exclusively) meant for Me and I (alone) will reward it. Fasting is a shield. When any one of you is fasting on a day, he should neither indulge in obscene language, nor raise the voice; or if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: I am a person fasting.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What breaks the spirit of a fast besides eating and drinking?
Abstaining from spousal relations during fasting hours is also required, and the Prophet (SAW) taught that habits like lying, swearing and evil speech undermine the purpose of the fast even when food and drink are avoided.
Who does not have to fast during Ramadan?
Those who are ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, menstruating, elderly, or travelling are exempt from fasting.
Can missed fasting days be made up later?
Yes. Any fasting days missed due to a valid exemption can be made up throughout the rest of the year.
What does it mean that "fasting is a shield"?
According to the hadith, fasting is described as a shield that should keep a person from indecent language and raised voices, and if provoked or reviled, a fasting person is taught to respond simply: "I am fasting."
