Fasting

Fasting During the Month of Ramadan

Sawm is the fourth pillar of Islam and refers to fasting during the blessed month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this sacred month, Muslims fast every day from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib).

Fasting involves abstaining from:

• Food and drink

• Smoking

• Marital relations

• All sinful behavior

The fast begins with a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor and is broken at sunset with a meal known as Iftar, traditionally starting with dates and water.

Ramadan is especially significant because it is the month in which the Holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you so that you may become righteous.”
(Quran 2:183)

Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

Fasting is not only about abstaining from food but also about spiritual purification and personal growth. It teaches Muslims to control their desires and develop stronger faith.

Key values learned through fasting include:

• Self-discipline – controlling desires and maintaining patience

• Patience and perseverance – enduring hardship with faith

• Gratitude – appreciating the blessings of food, health, and life

• Empathy for the poor – understanding the struggles of those who lack basic necessities

• Spiritual reflection – focusing on prayer, Quran recitation, and remembrance of Allah

Ramadan Worship and Activities

During Ramadan, Muslims increase their acts of worship and charity. Common practices include:

• Performing Tarawih prayers at night in the mosque

• Reading and reflecting on the Holy Quran

• Giving Zakat and Sadaqah (charity)

• Strengthening family and community bonds

The last ten nights of Ramadan are particularly special, as they include Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power), which is described in the Quran as better than a thousand months.