Ramadan is a time of worship, prayer, patience, and a moment to reflect on one’s faith. For Muslims all around the world, fasting is one of the most important acts carried out during this blessed month. It is a time when believers step away from everyday distractions and strengthen their relationship with Allah. Many also find themselves remembering those facing hardship and daily struggles.
At Orphans in Need, we understand that Ramadan is about more than just refraining from eating and drinking. It is an opportunity to give generously to those who need it most. Our Ramadan fasting guide is put in place to help Muslims acknowledge the importance behind fasting in Ramadan and how they can make the most out of this blessed month.
What is Fasting in Ramadan?
Fasting, also known as Sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. During the month of Ramadan, every Muslim who is able to fast must abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset. Fasting is about more than physical hunger and thirst. It is also a time for a believer to work on their character and to avoid behaviour which can be harmful to themselves or others. Ultimately, the focus of the month is to worship Allah and seek closeness to Him.
Allah tells us in the Quran,
“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was for those before you so that you may become mindful of Allah.”
[Quran 2:183]
The purpose of fasting is to help us develop firm belief and awareness of Allah. By distancing ourselves from harmful things and controlling our desires, we are able to use Ramadan as a chance to work and improve on ourselves both personally and spiritually.
Why Do Muslims Fast During Ramadan?
Fasting in Ramadan is in place to allow Muslims to take a step back from the comforts of everyday life, which can easily be taken for granted by many people. Feeling hunger can help us appreciate and value the blessings that have been sent down by Allah.
It can also help us understand the difficulties that many people are facing in their day-to-day lives. For many vulnerable families around the world, hunger is not something they face from dawn till sunset, but it is an everyday struggle.
This is why Ramadan is such an important time to think about those who are less fortunate. As we wait for Iftar and look forward to a meal with our families, we must think about those who don’t have the same luxuries in life that we have been blessed with. Through giving Zakat and Sadaqah, we are helping make Ramadan a little easier for those facing hardship. With your support, Orphans in Need is able to help the vulnerable orphans and widows with shelter, food, and assistance all year round.
When Does the Fast Begin and End?
The daily fast begins at the time of the Fajr prayer at dawn, and continues on until sunset, upon the Maghrib call to prayer. Muslims are permitted to eat and drink during the night between these two times.
Suhoor is the meal eaten before the fast begins, whilst Iftar is the meal eaten after sunset to break the fast. Having Suhoor and drinking enough water during those hours can help prepare the body for the day to come.
A Ramadan timetable is largely useful in this month as the timings of Fajr and Maghrib change throughout the month.
Who is Exempt from Fasting?
Although fasting is an important obligation, Islam recognises that not everyone is able to fast. Children who have not reached puberty, people who are seriously unwell, the elderly, and those who are travelling may be exempt from fasting. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as women who are menstruating, are also among those who may not fast.
The Quran reminds us of the Mercy of Allah, telling us that
“Allah intends ease for you, not hardship.”
[Quran 2:185]
If someone is temporarily unable to fast, they may need to make up the missed fasts at another time. However, those who are permanently unable to fast are required to pay Fidya instead. The ruling behind this can depend on a person’s circumstances, so those who are not sure should speak to a local imam or qualified scholar to seek knowledge.
What Does the Prophet (Peace be Upon Him) Teach Us About Fasting?
The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) taught Muslims about the reward that is connected to fasting. Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Peace be Upon Him) said:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
[Bukhari and Muslim]
Fasting should be carried out with sincere faith and with the urge to seek forgiveness from Allah. This period allows the believer to make positive changes that can continue beyond the blessed month of Ramadan.
Fasting is More Than Going Without Food
A successful Ramadan is when a believer is able to control their desires, actions, and behaviour. Ramadan provides the opportunity for a believer to avoid gossiping, arguing, and showing anger towards others. Instead, Muslims must increase their prayer, Quran recitation, and remembrance of Allah through worship and acts of kindness.
Ramadan is ultimately a time for both personal and spiritual growth. Every day is a time that is provided by Allah to seek opportunity in asking for forgiveness and making a sincere effort to improve.
Make Charity Part of Your Ramadan
Fasting can be a reminder of the blessings that have been bestowed on us by Allah, recognising that not everyone has what we have, and that there are the vulnerable who struggle to get through each day. Ramadan gives us the opportunity to take action and to give charity in a powerful way, which turns gratitude into support for others.
The Messenger of Allah (Peace be Upon Him) was known for his generosity, and his generosity increased during the month of Ramadan. Muslims can use this blessed month to also give charity such as Sadaqah, Zakat, Fitrana or other forms of giving support.
Ramadan is the perfect time to extend our hands and come together as an Ummah to remember those in need. We here at Orphans in Need rely on your kindness and generosity to help us provide food and essential support to orphaned children, widows and families who are facing hardship and poverty. Donate this Ramadan.
Make the Most of Ramadan
Fasting in Ramadan is a journey of faith and patience. Whether it is your first time fasting or you have observed the month of Ramadan for many years, each Ramadan welcomes new opportunity for a believer to strengthen their connection with Allah.
By using this Ramadan fasting guide to understand the basics, we hope to have prepared you for your fasts and to help you reflect on the wider purpose of Ramadan.
Ultimately it comes down to making time for the things that are most important. Stand up for prayer, recite the Quran, look after yourself, be patient with those around you, and remember the less fortunate.
Most importantly, let your fasting inspire you to give. By supporting vulnerable orphans and families this Ramadan, you can help us provide food and care to those in need. Donate today and help bring hope and dignity to the vulnerable.
We pray to Allah that He accepts our fast, our prayers, and our charity. We pray He forgives us for all of our wrongdoings, and we pray He allows us to make the most out of this blessed month, Ameen.
