Ramadan is one of the most sacred months in Islam, offering Muslims a chance to strengthen faith, purify the soul, and earn immense rewards. Fasting (Sawm) is the fourth pillar of Islam, and understanding its rules and associated supplications ensures that worship is done correctly and with devotion.
Understanding Fasting in Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan means abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). While Muslims may fast voluntarily during other months, fasting in Ramadan is obligatory for all healthy and mature Muslims. This practice is designed to cultivate self-discipline, spiritual awareness, and closeness to Allah.
The Quran emphasizes the significance of fasting:
“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa (God-consciousness).” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also highlighted its rewards:
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with sincere faith and seeking reward from Allah, all their past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
Who Should Fast
Islam obliges fasting on every Muslim who is physically and mentally capable, having reached puberty. Children may begin partial or full fasting as they grow older, often around age 10, depending on health and ability.
Certain groups are exempted from fasting, including:
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The elderly who are unable to fast
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The sick or chronically ill
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women if fasting affects health
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Travelers, under specific conditions
Essential Rules of Fasting
Fasting is more than just refraining from food and drink; it involves spiritual discipline and awareness of one’s actions. Some basic rules include:
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Intention (Niyyah): Every fast must begin with a sincere intention for the sake of Allah, made in the heart before dawn. This intention distinguishes a ritual fast from ordinary abstinence.
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Abstinence: During fasting hours, one must avoid eating, drinking, and marital relations. Harmful behavior, lying, and sinful speech should also be avoided to maintain the spiritual integrity of the fast.
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Breaking the Fast: Fast is broken at sunset, typically upon hearing the call to Maghrib prayer. Eating or drinking before this invalidates the fast.
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Consistency: Fasting must be observed daily throughout the month of Ramadan, except for valid exemptions.
Duas for Ramadan
Supplications are a vital part of fasting, helping believers connect with Allah and seek blessings:
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Dua for Starting the Fast:
“O Allah! I intend to keep the fast for You, and I seek Your reward.” -
Dua for Breaking the Fast:
“O Allah! You are the Most Merciful, I fasted for Your sake, and now I break my fast with Your provision.”
These duas enhance the spiritual experience, reminding Muslims that fasting is not only physical abstinence but a means of worship and devotion.
The Spiritual Rewards
Fasting in Ramadan provides more than physical discipline—it strengthens faith, develops patience, and purifies the soul. Observing fasts with sincerity brings forgiveness, mercy, and closeness to Allah, while cultivating gratitude, empathy for the less fortunate, and self-control.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules of fasting and the proper duas ensures that Ramadan is observed correctly and spiritually rewarding. Making intentions sincerely, following prescribed rules, and embracing the spiritual aspect of fasting allows Muslims to fully benefit from this blessed month. Ramadan is not just a time to abstain from food and drink but a period of personal growth, reflection, and divine connection.