Tips on How to Fast During Ramadan

Muslims fast during Ramadan because it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and has a lot of spiritual meaning for them. Muslims must not eat, drink, smoke, or have sexual contact from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib) during the fast, which is called Sawm. But fasting isn't just not meeting your physical needs; it's also a spiritual practice that means not doing bad things like lying, arguing, and spreading rumors. Every day, you must decide (Niyyah) to fast before dawn, because fasting is an act of worship that you do truly for Allah's sake.

A meal before dawn is called Suhoor, and the last meal of the day is called Iftar, which is eaten at sunset. Following what the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) did, it is suggested to break the fast with dates and water. Children, the old, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, travelers, and people who are sick are not required to fast. But people who can should make up fasts later, or if they can't, they should do fidya (feeding someone in need) as a way to make up for it.

Muslims must stay away from things that would make the fast useless in order for it to be valid. These include eating or drinking on purpose, having sexual relations while fasting, throwing up on purpose, or women's periods and bleeding after giving birth. Along with following the rules about what to wear, it is also important to have good character. Regularly praying, reading the Qur'an, doing good deeds, and making duas (supplications) all make Ramadan more spiritual. The ultimate goal of fasting is to reach taqwa, which means piety and awareness of Allah. This changes the heart and mind to be more devoted, thankful, and self-reflective.