The month of Ramadan is generally the only time Muslims are obligated to fast, but the Prophet ﷺ would fast at various times throughout the year. He advised his Companions, depending on their capability, to fast three days a month. In a nutshell, Ramadan fasting is a fundamental practice in Islam where healthy adult Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations from dawn to sunset during the month of Ramadan. This spiritual observance fosters self-discipline, empathy, and increased devotion to Allah. Ramadan, in Islam, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon. Because the Muslim calendar year is shorter than the Gregorian calendar year, Ramadan begins 10–12 days earlier each year, allowing it to fall in every season throughout a 33-year cycle. Explore the significance of Ramadan, a sacred month for Muslims, and learn about the rules of fasting that are designed to be easy and merciful. The text discusses how the early generations earnestly prayed for the opportunity to witness Ramadan and how the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, encouraged acts of worship during this blessed time. The daily fast in Ramadan includes abstaining from all food and drink – not even a sip of water is allowed – from dawn to sunset before breaking the fast in a meal known as “iftar” in Arabic. Those fasting are expected to also refrain from bad deeds, such as gossiping, and to increase good deeds. Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the deeds of worship required of all Muslims who have attained puberty. Women who are having their menstrual period or who have not fully recovered from childbirth, postpone the fast until they are completely out of their special conditions. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims won't eat or drink during the hours of daylight. This is called fasting. Children are not expected to fast until they reach puberty, Ramadan fasting is one of the most observed of all the pillars of Islam, with 70-80% of Muslims practising it. It is obligatory for all Muslims, men and women, from the age of puberty. Parents How Muslims Fast. According to Muslims, fasting in Ramadan means abstaining not only from food and drink, but also from sexual intercourse, lying, arguing, and back-biting. While fasting, Muslims must be careful to restrain their tongues, temper, and even their gaze. Fasting during the month of Ramadan, called the sawm, is considered one of the five pillars of Islam that shape a Muslim's life. The Arabic word for fasting means "to refrain," not only from food and drink but also from evil actions, thoughts, or words. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The prayer of a fasting person at the time of breaking fast is never rejected.” (Sunan Ibn Majah) 10. Preparation for the Rest of the Year. Ramadan serves as a spiritual training ground, equipping Muslims with the discipline, patience, and piety needed to face the challenges of the rest of the year. A: The revelations from God to the Prophet Muhammad that would eventually be compiled as the Quran began during Ramadan in the year 610, but the fast of Ramadan did not become a religious obligation for Muslims until the year 624. The obligation to fast is explained in the second chapter of the Quran: “O ye who believe! Ramadan is the holy month when Muslims around the world observe fasting (Siyam) as an act of worship and obedience to Allah. Fasting during Ramadan is a way to purify the soul, strengthen faith, and develop self-discipline. The daily fast in Ramadan includes abstaining from all food and drink; not even a sip of water is allowed from dawn to sunset before breaking the fast in a meal known as “iftar” in Arabic. Those fasting are expected to also refrain from bad deeds, such as gossiping, and increase good deeds. Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and giving. By observing fasting, prayers, and charity, Muslims strengthen their faith and foster a sense of community. Ramadan Mubarak! May this Ramadan bring peace, prosperity, and countless blessings to all. For updated information, refer to the Ramadan Calendar 2025 on the Muslim Aid "Give yourself or your loved ones a priceless gift of understanding Ramadan with this indispensable guide." Learn and understand the Ramadan fast with this invaluable illustrated Islamic guide based on the Holy Quran and Sunnah - For children and adults, boys and girls + 27 Quizzes to test your acquired knowledge + QR codes to listen in Arabic _____ PRINTING: Premium color interior content on Yesterday evening marked the beginning of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, introspection, and prayer. Ramadan will be observed by most of the 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide, and will end on July 5. Common perception of Ramadan is that it involves enormous amounts of painstaking fasting--which doesn’t sound fun. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar during which the Holy Quran was sent down to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).. During this time, Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset, a command given to Muslims in the Quran itself, instructing believers to observe fasting as an act of devotion and self-discipline. Lex Fridman Podcast full episode: support this podcast by checking out our sponsors:- NetSuite: Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, which marks important holidays and events for Muslims (people who practice Islam). During Ramadan people fast, or refrain from eating and drinking, while it’s light outside. Once the sun sets, families meet for big meals that may include stew, rice, dates, lentils, and more.
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