What fasting involves
During Ramadan, eligible Muslims abstain from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset with the intention of worshipping Allah. The fast also calls for guarding speech, behavior, and the heart from wrongdoing.
Ramadan is a month of Qur’an, prayer, charity, repentance, family, and community. Each day ends with Iftar, and the month concludes with Eid al-Fitr.
Why this pillar is important
Fasting develops Taqwa—awareness of Allah—because the believer gives up lawful comforts solely for His sake. It strengthens patience, breaks unhealthy habits, increases gratitude for everyday blessings, and builds empathy for those who experience hunger and hardship.
Ramadan is also an annual opportunity for spiritual renewal and a fresh beginning.
Putting it into practice
Muslims should learn the correct beginning and ending times, maintain sincere intention, protect the fast from harmful conduct, and balance worship with health and responsibility. Islamic law provides exemptions and alternative duties for certain illnesses, travel, age, pregnancy, and other circumstances; personal questions should be discussed with a qualified scholar.
This page provides a general introduction. Detailed personal rulings should be discussed with a qualified and trusted Islamic scholar.