Ramadan: Fasting, Prayer, Reflection

How do Muslims fast?
Throughout the month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe fasting. The Holy Quran guides Muslims in the following words: O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous. (Holy Quran 2:184)

According to the Islamic traditions, each day, fasting begins roughly one hour before sunrise, and the fast is ended at sunset. During the fast, Muslims completely abstain from eating or drinking. Not even water is permissible when one is observing a fast.

Ramadan is meant to be a time of reflection for every Muslim. Many spend their days and nights in worship of God Almighty. Most Muslims aim to complete one full recitation of the Holy Quran during this sacred month. Even at night time, Muslims cut short their sleep and wake up early to offer the supererogatory prayers to gain nearness to God.

Exemptions in fasting
Where fasting has been made mandatory for Muslims, God Almighty has given exemptions as well. According to the Holy Quran, those who are sick must not fast. Similarly, those who are traveling are also exempted from fasting. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding a child, must also not fast as it can have a detrimental effects on the health of the mother and the child. Young children are also not permitted to fast until they reach the age of maturity. Students writing exams and going through rigorous study routines are also permitted to skip fasting in Ramadan. The elderly are also exempt from fasting if their health doesn’t allow them.

Those who are not able to fast for one or another reason, are instructed to feed a poor person for each day they missed fasting. This is to encourage a charitable behaviour in mankind, as that also leads to betterment in one’s spirituality.

Conclusion
The purpose of fasting is to enhance our spirituality and turn us into better human beings. It is meant to help us in leading lives full of compassion towards mankind, and guiding us on the path to gratefulness.

Tariq Azeem is Imam & Missionary of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Jamaica. Contact us: 876-283-9533.