In the name of Allah, Praise belongs to Allah, and Peace and Blessings be upon our Beloved Messenger, and his family and his companions.
And so:
Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is one of the most significant acts of worship in Islam. It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion. In this blog post, we will explore the rules, conditions, and recommendations related to fasting as outlined in Islamic teachings. Whether you are a seasoned fasting observer or new to this practice, this guide will provide valuable insights to enhance your Ramadan experience.
The Obligation of Fasting in Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan is a compulsory act of worship for every able Muslim. Allah says in the Quran:
“The fast of Ramadan is an obligatory duty.”
The beginning of Ramadan is determined by the completion of the month of Sha’ban or the sighting of the crescent moon by two reliable witnesses. If the crescent moon is not sighted, the news of its sighting by a large portion of the community is also sufficient. The same principles apply to determining the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The Intention to Fast
The intention to fast must be made at the beginning of Ramadan. However, it is not necessary to renew this intention every day for the rest of the month. The fast must be maintained from dawn (Fajr) until nightfall. It is Sunnah to hasten to break the fast (Iftar) at sunset and to delay the pre-dawn meal (Suhoor).
If the arrival of Ramadan is confirmed before Fajr, fasting becomes obligatory. If it is confirmed after Fajr, one must immediately abstain from eating and drinking for the remainder of the day and make up that day later.
Conditions for a Valid Fast
- Intention: The intention to fast must be made before dawn, whether the fast is obligatory (like Ramadan) or voluntary.
- Purity from Menstruation and Post-Childbirth Bleeding: Women must be free from menstruation and post-childbirth bleeding to fast. If the bleeding stops before Fajr, fasting becomes obligatory even if they have not performed the ritual bath (Ghusl).
- Full Intellectual Consciousness: Fasting is not valid for those who are insane or unconscious. If they regain consciousness, they must make up the missed fasts.
- Abstaining from Food, Drink, and Sexual Intercourse: Intentionally breaking the fast by eating, drinking, or engaging in sexual intercourse requires making up the fast and performing expiation (Kaffarah).
Acts That Invalidate the Fast
- Intentional Eating, Drinking or Engaging in Intercourse: Breaking the fast intentionally requires making up the day and performing Kaffarah, which involves feeding 60 needy people or fasting for two consecutive months.
- Vomiting: If one vomits unintentionally, the fast remains valid. However, if vomiting is induced, the fast is broken and must be made up.
Acts Permitted During Fasting
- Using a Siwak (tooth-stick) and rinsing the mouth with water are allowed.
- Experiencing major impurity (Janabah) does not invalidate the fast.
- Pregnant and nursing women, as well as the elderly, are permitted to break their fast if they fear harm to themselves or their children. They must make up the missed fasts or feed the needy as expiation.
Recommended Acts During Fasting
- Guarding the Tongue: It is highly recommended to avoid backbiting, lying, and other sinful speech.
- Hastening to Make Up Missed Fasts: If one misses fasts, they should make them up as soon as possible.
- Voluntary Fasting: Fasting on days like the Day of Arafat, Ashura, and the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah is highly recommended.
Acts Disliked During Fasting
- Tasting Food: Tasting food without swallowing is disliked unless necessary.
- Sexual Foreplay: Kissing, touching, or engaging in lustful behavior is discouraged, as it may lead to breaking the fast.
- Fasting on the Day of Doubt: Fasting on the day when the sighting of the crescent moon is uncertain is disliked unless it coincides with a voluntary fast.
- Cupping: While cupping does not invalidate the fast, it is disliked for those who fear it may weaken them.
The Virtue of Standing in Prayer (Qiyam al-Layl)
Standing in prayer during Ramadan, especially during the nights of Taraweeh, is highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever stands in Ramadan with faith and anticipation of reward will have their previous sins forgiven.”
It is recommended to pray at home if it does not lead to the mosques being empty.
Conclusion
Fasting in Ramadan is a profound act of worship that brings Muslims closer to Allah. By understanding the rules and recommendations, we can ensure that our fasts are valid and spiritually rewarding. May Allah accept our fasts, prayers, and good deeds during this blessed month.
Allah knows best.
Sourced from: Matn al-Ashmawiyaa