What is the Ruling on Fasting the Month of Ramadan?
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183) Ramadan is not just any month—it’s the holiest month in Islam. A time for reflection, spiritual growth, and devotion to Allah, it holds deep significance for Muslims worldwide. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a religious obligation for all Muslims who are physically and mentally able. In this blog, we’ll explore the ruling on fasting during the month of Ramadan, who is required to fast, what invalidates a fast, and what to eat during the month to maintain energy and health. What is the Ruling on Fasting the Month of Ramadan? Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for every adult Muslim who meets the necessary conditions. It is not just a physical act of abstaining from food and drink, but a spiritual practice that draws one closer to Allah. It serves as a time of purification, self-discipline, and devotion. By fasting, Muslims strive to attain taqwa (piety) and show gratitude for Allah’s blessings. Ramadan Fasting Rules and Timing: Everything You Need to Know The Obligation of Fasting in Ramadan Fasting during Ramadan is one of the most important practices for Muslims. It is not only a way to purify the body, but it also serves as a spiritual discipline that brings a person closer to Allah. This act of fasting is rooted deeply in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and it is seen as an essential duty for all Muslims who meet the requirements. Let’s dive into the religious texts and explore the obligation of fasting during Ramadan. Quranic Evidence The obligation of fasting during Ramadan is clearly mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183-185), which reads: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” This verse illustrates that fasting is a divine commandment meant to purify the soul, strengthen self-discipline, and help Muslims grow spiritually. The mention of fasting as it was decreed upon previous nations emphasizes its importance as a universal practice for spiritual growth, not just for the followers of Islam but for those before them. The Quran also outlines that fasting is a tool for achieving righteousness—taqwa—and a means to turn towards Allah in devotion. The ultimate goal of fasting is not just physical abstinence from food and drink, but the spiritual transformation that comes from consciously refraining from all desires and focusing on devotion to Allah. Hadith Evidence The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasized fasting as a core practice in Islam. In the famous hadith recorded in Sahih Bukhari & Muslim, the Prophet said: “Islam is built upon five pillars: the testimony of faith, establishing prayer, giving zakat, fasting in Ramadan, and performing Hajj.” This hadith reinforces that fasting is not optional; it is a fundamental pillar of Islam, essential to a Muslim’s faith. It is through these five pillars that a Muslim is able to practice and live their faith. Fasting is central to this framework, helping believers stay focused on Allah and maintain spiritual discipline. Who is Obligated to Fast? The obligation to fast is clear for every adult Muslim who is mentally sane and physically capable. This means that once a person reaches the age of maturity (puberty), they are required to observe the fast during Ramadan unless there are specific conditions or exemptions. Who is Exempt from Fasting? Not everyone is obligated to fast during Ramadan, especially those who may experience harm or difficulty if they were to do so. There are specific exemptions for people who fall under certain categories, and they may either make up their fasts later or provide compensation. Here’s a breakdown: Sick Individuals Travelers If someone is on a long journey that causes hardship or exhaustion, they are allowed to postpone fasting. As soon as the journey ends, they can make up the fast on another day when they are back and settled, ensuring that their health is not impacted by the fast during travel. Pregnant & Nursing Women If a woman is pregnant or nursing, and fasting may harm her or her baby, she is permitted to postpone fasting. Like those who are ill, if they are unable to fast, they may provide Fidya as compensation for the missed fasts. Elderly & Weak Individuals Older individuals or those who are physically weak and unable to fast due to advanced age or health conditions may also be exempt. In this case, they are required to pay Fidya by feeding a poor person for each day of fasting missed. Menstruating & Postpartum Women Women who are experiencing menstruation or are in the postpartum period are also not allowed to fast during these times. However, they must make up for the missed days later when they are able to do so. Conditions for a Valid Fast In order for the fast to be valid, certain conditions must be fulfilled: Intention (Niyyah) A clear intention (niyyah) must be made before Fajr (dawn). The intention is what separates fasting from mere abstinence, and it is important to be conscious that one is fasting for the sake of Allah. This can be done mentally and doesn’t necessarily require verbal affirmation. It’s also important to remember that a new intention must be made for each day of fasting during Ramadan. Abstaining from Eating, Drinking, and Sexual Relations From Fajr to Maghrib (sunset), the fasting person must abstain from eating, drinking, and having sexual relations. Any of these actions during fasting hours will break the fast. Avoiding Sinful Behavior It is not enough to just refrain from food and drink. Sinful actions like lying, gossiping, arguing, or becoming angry can also diminish the spiritual benefits of fasting. Fasting requires discipline in all aspects of behavior, not just physical abstinence. Breaking the Fast: What … Read more
