Fasting During Ramadan: A Pillar of Islam

One of the Five Pillars of Islam is fasting during Ramadan (Sawm). Muslims all over the world do this as a way to pray, discipline themselves, and clean their spirits. Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) to dusk (Maghrib) during this holy month. They don't eat, drink, or meet other physical needs. Instead, they focus on prayer, thought, and devotion to Allah.

Purpose and Spiritual Benefits

You don't have to give up food to fast; it's also a way to learn self-control, patience, and compassion for those who are less privileged. It makes religion stronger, increases taqwa (awareness of Allah), and makes people feel thankful. God says in the Quran: "O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain piety." (Al-Baqarah 2:183)

Daily Routine in Ramadan

• Suhoor (Pre-dawn meal): A meal before Fajr prayer, providing energy for the day.

• Observing Fasting (Sawm): Abstaining from food, drink, and sinful behavior until

• sunset.

• Iftar (Breaking the fast): Traditionally done with dates and water, followed by a meal.

• Taraweeh Prayers: Special nightly prayers in congregation at the mosque.

Exemptions from Fasting

In Islam, people who can't fast because they are sick, travelling, pregnant, menstruating, or old can get out of it. If they can't fast, they can make up the fasts they missed later or give charity.

Rewards and Blessings

Fasting is very beneficial, and the last ten nights of Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power) have made the benefits even greater. "All of your sins will be forgiven if you fast during Ramadan with faith and the desire for reward," said the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). (Muslim and Sahih Bukhari)

Ramadan is a month of kindness, healing, and self-improvement. It brings Muslims closer to Allah and helps the Ummah work together.