Fasting Rules, OK!

Fasting is an integral part of the month of Ramadan. Indeed, it is one of the pillars of Islam. Whilst Muslims fast as an act of obedience to God, there are also many benefits - such as increasing self-control, compassion, and awareness of God.

The fast is particularly important because it is private. Other acts of worship, such as prayer, pilgrimage, and giving Zakat can be seen by others. Whereas only God will know whether someone has completed the fast properly or not. It is therefore an action that God rewards greatly. Indeed, good actions receive many times their reward during Ramadan, and the Holy Prophet (pbuh) was at his most generous in this month.

Who should fast?

Any Muslim who is an adult, sane, in good health, and not a traveller on a long journey should fast. Also note that women who are menstruating, pregnant, or breast-feeding wouldn't fast.

When should Muslims fast?

The fast is for the 29/30 days of Ramadan. The beginning of Ramadan is usually determined by the sighting of the new moon, as is its end - bearing in mind that a lunar month can only be 29 or 30 days long. The period of fasting each day is from dawn (the period before sunrise when the morning brightens) to sunset. Muslims are encouraged to be prompt when breaking their fast once the sun has set. A light pre-dawn meal is also recommended.

How do you perfect your fast?

In simple physical terms, fasting means abstaining from food, drink, and sexual activity. However, to perfect one's fast one should also abstain from sinful behaviour in general e.g. backbiting others. Intention is also a crucial part of the fast - and many scholars believe you need to make your intention to fast before dawn for your fast to count.

What about missed fasts?

If someone accidentally has a bite of food or a sip of water without realising it, this does not break their fast, and they should continue their fast as normal.

Some people will have valid reasons for not fasting, such as health reasons or travelling far from home. In these cases, people can make up the missed fasts after Ramadan. Or, they could also give Fidya instead as a way of making up the missed fasts. (Note, it's considered poor manners for those who aren't fasting to eat and drink in front f those who are).

If someone deliberately breaks their fast without a valid reason then this is a very serious matter. To atone for missing a single day like this, the person should fast for 60 days straight, after Eid-ul-Fitr. Or, they could also give Kaffarah instead to atone for the broken fasts.