sawm/fasting during ramadan (practices)

• ramadan

  • holiest moth of the year
  • dedicated to self-discipline and spiritual reflection
  • holds special place in muslim calendar, because it is believed to be the month in which the Prophet Muhammad receives the first verse of the Qu'ran
• fasting

  • deliberate control of the body
  • expected to refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual intercourse from dawn to dusk for the period of 29/30 days
  • must also abstain from evil thoughts, harmful actions and unkind speech
• why do muslims fast

  • is commanded in Qu'ran by God- follows example of Prophet Muhammad (sunnah)
  • celebrates the fact that God has given humans the Qu'ran
  • brings people closer to God
  • is a reminder of the mercy and blessings of God
  • helps Muslims to identify with the poor
  • promotes self control
  • helps to recharge spiritual batteries
  • unites muslims communities
• who should fast?

  • God has instructed all adult muslims to fast during Ramadan
  • if someone is ill or travelling, they are exempt from fasting, but have to make up the days at a later time