http://www.sunnah.org/ibadaat/fasting/fast.htmlThis_is_a_common_but_interesting_question_which_a_child_may_ask_his/her_parents._Non-Muslim_may_also_pose_it_to_a_Muslim._Here_are_some_possible_reasons_why_Muslims_observe_a_marathon_one-month_fast_during_Ramadan.">This is a common but interesting question which a child may ask his/her parents. Non-Muslim may also pose it to a Muslim. Here are some possible reasons why Muslims observe a marathon one-month fast during Ramadan.(a)_To_obey_Allah's_injunction">(a) To obey Allah's injunctionFundamental_to_a_Muslim's_faith_(or_belief)_are_six_articles:_(i)_belief_in_Allah,_(ii)_belief_in_Angels,_(iii)_belief_in_divine_Books_of_Allah,_(iv)_belief_in_all_Prophets,_(v)_belief_in_the_Day_of_Judgement,_and_(vi)_belief_in_Predestination._Articles_(i)_and_(iii)_demand_that_a_Muslim_must_believe_in,_obey_and_implement,_all_the_words_of_Allah_contained_in_the_Holy_Qur'an._This_is_because_...His_(Allah)_word_is_the_truth...%22_(6:73)_and_::the_truth_is_from_your_Lord,_so_be_not_at_all_in_doubt%22(2:147)_and_%22...whose_word_can_be_truer_than_Allah?%22_(Qur'an)._Thematically,_Qur'an_contains_injunctions_for_mankind,_allegories,_stories_of_past_events,_accounts_of_future_events,_and_a_lot_of_lessons_especially_for_Muslims._Of_importance_the_injunctions_are_sometime_directed_to_all_creatures_(men_and_jinns),_or_sometime_to_specific_gender_(men_or_women),_or_sometime_to_specific_tribes_(eg_%22Bani_Israel%22),_or_sometime_to_the_progeny_of_Adam_(i.e_mankind),_or_sometime_to_Ahl-ul_kitaab_(the_people_of_the_book),_or_sometime_to_Muslims_(i.e_those_who_believe_in_One_Allah)_etc._In_most_cases,_the_injunctions_of_Allah_to_Muslims_can_be_regarded_as_blessing_and_mercy_and_when_fully_obeyed_often_lead_them_to_His_straight_path._Without_mincing_words,_there_is_no_compromise_with_Allah's_injunctions:_every_sincere_and_God-fearing_Muslim_must_obey_them;_this_is_a_necessary_precondition_for_being_a_Muslim._One_of_His_injunctions,_directed_to_Muslims_(men_and_women),_is:">Fundamental to a Muslim's faith (or belief) are six articles: (i) belief in Allah, (ii) belief in Angels, (iii) belief in divine Books of Allah, (iv) belief in all Prophets, (v) belief in the Day of Judgement, and (vi) belief in Predestination. Articles (i) and (iii) demand that a Muslim must believe in, obey and implement, all the words of Allah contained in the Holy Qur'an. This is because ...His (Allah) word is the truth..." (6:73) and ::the truth is from your Lord, so be not at all in doubt"(2:147) and "...whose word can be truer than Allah?" (Qur'an). Thematically, Qur'an contains injunctions for mankind, allegories, stories of past events, accounts of future events, and a lot of lessons especially for Muslims. Of importance the injunctions are sometime directed to all creatures (men and jinns), or sometime to specific gender (men or women), or sometime to specific tribes (eg "Bani Israel"), or sometime to the progeny of Adam (i.e mankind), or sometime to Ahl-ul kitaab (the people of the book), or sometime to Muslims (i.e those who believe in One Allah) etc. In most cases, the injunctions of Allah to Muslims can be regarded as blessing and mercy and when fully obeyed often lead them to His straight path. Without mincing words, there is no compromise with Allah's injunctions: every sincere and God-fearing Muslim must obey them; this is a necessary precondition for being a Muslim. One of His injunctions, directed to Muslims (men and women), is:%22O_you_who_believe,_fasting_is_prescribed_for_you...%22(2:183)">"O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you..."(2:183)The_phrase_%22O_you_who_believe%22_is_referring_to:_(i)_those_who_submit_to_Allah's_wills_and_commands,_(ii)_those_who_believe_in_the_six_articles_of_faith,_(iii)_those_who_testify_that_%22La_ilaha_illa_llaha_Muhammadu-r_Rasululla%22,_(iv)_those_who_practise_the_five_pillars_of_Islam,_and_(v)_those_who_implement_and_obey_Allah's_injunctions_in_the_Qur'an_and_follow_the_sunnah_of_His_Prophet,_Muhammad_(s.a.w)._No_followers_of_any_religions_satisfy_these_criteria_of_%22O_you_who_believe%22_except_the_Muslims._It_is_they_(Muslims)_that_Allah_is_directing_His_injunction_in_2:183_to._The_injunction_prescribed_fasting_as_a_compulsory_duty_for_them_thus:">The phrase "O you who believe" is referring to: (i) those who submit to Allah's wills and commands, (ii) those who believe in the six articles of faith, (iii) those who testify that "La ilaha illa llaha Muhammadu-r Rasululla", (iv) those who practise the five pillars of Islam, and (v) those who implement and obey Allah's injunctions in the Qur'an and follow the sunnah of His Prophet, Muhammad (s.a.w). No followers of any religions satisfy these criteria of "O you who believe" except the Muslims. It is they (Muslims) that Allah is directing His injunction in 2:183 to. The injunction prescribed fasting as a compulsory duty for them thus:%22...fasting_is_prescribed_for_you_(Muslims)...%22_(2:183)">"...fasting is prescribed for you (Muslims)..." (2:183)and">and%22...whoever_witnesses_the_month_of_Ramadan_should_fast_through_it...%22_(2:185)">"...whoever witnesses the month of Ramadan should fast through it..."(2:185)Clearly,_Ramadan_fast_is_a_divine_injunction_mandatory_for_all_able-bodied_Muslims_who_are_free_from_compelling_excuses._Whoever_deliberately_forgoes_fasting_in_Ramadan,_should_know_that_(s)he_has_disobeyed_Allah's_injunction_and_no_amount_of_fasting_thereafter_can_give_her/him_a_reward_equivalent_to_one_misssed_Ramadan_fast_as_obvious_in_this_hadeeth:">Clearly, Ramadan fast is a divine injunction mandatory for all able-bodied Muslims who are free from compelling excuses. Whoever deliberately forgoes fasting in Ramadan, should know that (s)he has disobeyed Allah's injunction and no amount of fasting thereafter can give her/him a reward equivalent to one misssed Ramadan fast as obvious in this hadeeth:Abu_Huraira_reported_that_the_Prophet(s.a.w)_said:_%22whoever_did_not_fast_one_day_of_Ramadan_without_a_genuine_excuse_or_a_disease_then_even_if_he_fasted_for_a_complete_year,_it_would_not_compensate_for_that_(missed_Ramadan)_day%22">Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet(s.a.w) said: "whoever did not fast one day of Ramadan without a genuine excuse or a disease then even if he fasted for a complete year, it would not compensate for that (missed Ramadan) day"(Sahih_al-Bukhari,_vol_3,p.88)">(Sahih al-Bukhari, vol 3,p.88)(ii)_To_practice_the_tradition,_and_way_of_the_pious_people.">(ii) To practice the tradition, and way of the pious people.Fasting_is_not_new_to_Islam;_it_is,_indeed,_as_old_as_Adam(a.s)_who_was_the_first_creature_and_the_first_Muslim_to_submit_to_one_Allah._No_one_knows_precisely_when_fasting_began_among_Adam's_progenies_but_it_is_the_practice_of_all_the_Prophets_of_Allah_and_their_followers._Qur'an_mentions_that_Musa(a.s)_fasted_for_40_days_(see_2:51)_(this_is_what_the_Jews_termed_%22Jewish_Passover%22)_and_the_Prophet(s.a.w)_told_us_that_Dawud(a.s)_used_to_fast_for_half_of_the_year_(this_involves_fasting_on_every_alternate_day)._'Issa_(a.s)_(or_Jesus)_was_also_reported_to_have_fasted_for_40_days_(this_is_what_the_christians_termed_%22the_Lent%22,_usually_observed_before_Easter_festival)._Since_these_Prophets_were_Muslims,_it_can_be_seen_that_by_asking_Muslims_to_fast,_Allah_intends_to_draw_their_attention_to_the_practice_and_tradition_of_those_pious_predecessors_who_attained_piety_(in_His_sight)_through_fasting.">Fasting is not new to Islam; it is, indeed, as old as Adam(a.s) who was the first creature and the first Muslim to submit to one Allah. No one knows precisely when fasting began among Adam's progenies but it is the practice of all the Prophets of Allah and their followers. Qur'an mentions that Musa(a.s) fasted for 40 days (see 2:51) (this is what the Jews termed "Jewish Passover") and the Prophet(s.a.w) told us that Dawud(a.s) used to fast for half of the year (this involves fasting on every alternate day). 'Issa (a.s) (or Jesus) was also reported to have fasted for 40 days (this is what the christians termed "the Lent", usually observed before Easter festival). Since these Prophets were Muslims, it can be seen that by asking Muslims to fast, Allah intends to draw their attention to the practice and tradition of those pious predecessors who attained piety (in His sight) through fasting.%22O_ye_who_believe,_fasting_is_prescribed_for_you_as_it_was_prescribed_for_people_before_you_...%22(2:183)">"O ye who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for people before you ..."(2:183)This_verse_shows_that_fasting_was_observed_by_the_people_(i.e_%22ahl-ul_kitaab%22)_who_came_to_the_scene_before_the_Muslims_and_so_it_is_a_%22sunnat_Allah%22_(i.e_a_tradition_approved_by_Allah)_for_those_who_lived_aforetime_and_for_the_Muslims_who_are_now_the_best_generation_ever_raised_for_mankind_(3:110)._Qur'an_says:">This verse shows that fasting was observed by the people (i.e "ahl-ul kitaab") who came to the scene before the Muslims and so it is a "sunnat Allah" (i.e a tradition approved by Allah) for those who lived aforetime and for the Muslims who are now the best generation ever raised for mankind (3:110). Qur'an says:%22(As_for)_the_sunnat_Allah_(approved)_for_those_who_lived_aforetime,_no_change_will_you_find_in_(such)_sunnat-Allah%22_(33:43)">"(As for) the sunnat Allah (approved) for those who lived aforetime, no change will you find in (such) sunnat-Allah" (33:43)Therefore,_Ramadan_fast_should_be_seen_as_a_propagation_of_the_tradition_approved_by_Allah_for_all_those_who_submit_to_Him.">Therefore, Ramadan fast should be seen as a propagation of the tradition approved by Allah for all those who submit to Him.(iii)_To_learn_how_to_attain_piety">(iii) To learn how to attain pietyBy_the_very_nature_of_human_beings,_they_are_susceptible_to_sins_and_transgression_of_Allah's_limits._This_may_be_due_to_their_ignorance,_worldly_struggle_for_ephemeral_and_tantalizing_things,_or_satan's_handiwork._In_particular,_Muslims_are_warned_against_gossiping,_backbiting,_slandering,_hypocrisying,_lying,_cheating,_duping,_hatring,_nursing_grudge,_keeping_malice,_fornicating_as_these_vices_negate_the_teachings_of_the_Holy_Qur'an._But_since_Muslims_are_like_any_human_beings_created_to_err_as_a_result_of_forgetfulness,_they_need_to_be_reminded_and_coached_against_any_social_vices_from_time_to_time._This_will_requires_a_fixed_trainning_period_where_Muslims_will_know_and_learn_how_to_put_an_end_to_vices,_learn_virtues_and_get_nearer_to_Allah._That_trainning_period_is_chosen_by_Allah_to_be_the_Ramadan_fast_which_occurs_once_in_every_year._During_Ramadan:">By the very nature of human beings, they are susceptible to sins and transgression of Allah's limits. This may be due to their ignorance, worldly struggle for ephemeral and tantalizing things, or satan's handiwork. In particular, Muslims are warned against gossiping, backbiting, slandering, hypocrisying, lying, cheating, duping, hatring, nursing grudge, keeping malice, fornicating as these vices negate the teachings of the Holy Qur'an. But since Muslims are like any human beings created to err as a result of forgetfulness, they need to be reminded and coached against any social vices from time to time. This will requires a fixed trainning period where Muslims will know and learn how to put an end to vices, learn virtues and get nearer to Allah. That trainning period is chosen by Allah to be the Ramadan fast which occurs once in every year. During Ramadan:(a)_compulsory_five_daily_salaat_are_observed_regularly_and_timely_(this_is_to_remind_and_train_the_mindless_Muslims_that_salaat_is_an_all-time_duty_for_them);__(b)_Zakat-ul_fitr_is_paid_on_or_before_the_'idl_Fitr_(the_festival_that_commemorates_the_end_of_Ramadan_fast)_(Zakat-ul_fitr_is_to_teach_Muslims_to_do_sadaqah_and_to_remind_them_that_after_zakat-ul_fitr_they_should_not_forget_to_pay_on_time_their_annual_divine_obligatory_Zakaat,_the_fourth_pillar_of_Islam);__(c)_Tarawih_and_Tahajjud_prayers_are_observed_in_the_evening_and_night_of_Ramadan_(this_is_to_teach_Muslims_to_observe_nawafil_(i.e_additional)_prayers_after_Ramadan_so_as_to_increasetheir_iman_and_get_their_supplications_to_Allah_accepted_promptly);__(d)_Doubtful_hobby_such_as_smoking_is_stopped_(this_is_to_train_Muslims_to_be_frugal_as_Allah_hates_extravagancy_and_to_save_themselves_from_diseases_such_as_Tuberclosis,_Cancer,_and_heart_attack_known_to_be_associated_with_smoking_and_premature_death);__(e)_pornographic_videos/pictures_are_avoided_and_kept_away_(this_is_to_free_Muslims'_hearts_and_eyes_from_corruption_and_from_shaitan's_whisperings_to_do_evil_deeds);__(f)_Excessive_intake_of_food_is_avoided_(this_regulates_the_stomach_from_being_pot-bellied_and_distinguishes_Muslims_from_kaafir_whom_Qur'an_describes_as_those_who_eat_like_cattle_(47:12));_etc._All_these_good_things_which_Ramadan_fast_teaches_Muslims_are_the_means_to_attain_piety._This_is_why_the_verse_on_Ramadan_fast_says:">(a) compulsory five daily salaat are observed regularly and timely (this is to remind and train the mindless Muslims that salaat is an all-time duty for them);

(b) Zakat-ul fitr is paid on or before the 'idl Fitr (the festival that commemorates the end of Ramadan fast) (Zakat-ul fitr is to teach Muslims to do sadaqah and to remind them that after zakat-ul fitr they should not forget to pay on time their annual divine obligatory Zakaat, the fourth pillar of Islam);

(c) Tarawih and Tahajjud prayers are observed in the evening and night of Ramadan (this is to teach Muslims to observe nawafil (i.e additional) prayers after Ramadan so as to increasetheir iman and get their supplications to Allah accepted promptly);

(d) Doubtful hobby such as smoking is stopped (this is to train Muslims to be frugal as Allah hates extravagancy and to save themselves from diseases such as Tuberclosis, Cancer, and heart attack known to be associated with smoking and premature death);

(e) pornographic videos/pictures are avoided and kept away (this is to free Muslims' hearts and eyes from corruption and from shaitan's whisperings to do evil deeds);

(f) Excessive intake of food is avoided (this regulates the stomach from being pot-bellied and distinguishes Muslims from kaafir whom Qur'an describes as those who eat like cattle (47:12)); etc. All these good things which Ramadan fast teaches Muslims are the means to attain piety. This is why the verse on Ramadan fast says:

%22O_ye_who_believe,_fasting_is_prescribed_for_you...so_that_you_will_(learn_how_to_attain)_piety%22_(2:183)">"O ye who believe, fasting is prescribed for you...so that you will (learn how to attain) piety" (2:183)(iv)_To_reap_the_full_reward_of_the_Night_of_Power_(Lailat-ut_Qadr)">(iv) To reap the full reward of the Night of Power (Lailat-ut Qadr)The_last_book_of_Allah_to_His_creatures,_Al-Qur'an,_was_revealed_in_the_night_of_Ramadan._What_this_means_is_that_the_first_divine_revelation_to_Prophet_Muhammad(s.a.w)_took_place_in_the_Night_of_Ramadan._Allah_chose_the_night_because_of_the_special_blessings_in_it._It_is_called_the_night_of_Power_(Lailat-ut_Qadr)_or_the_night_of_blessing_(Lailat-ul_mubarak)._The_deed_in_this_night_is_better_than_the_rewards_of_deeds_of_1,000_months_(about_83.3_years)._Let_suppose_that_a_man_survived_up_to_100_years_and_he_consciously_witnessed_93_nights_of_Power,_he_would_have_in_his_account_more_than_7,750_rewards_which_exclude_all_other_rewards_he_earned_from_doing_virtuous_deeds._It_is_this_night_that_all_Muslims_are_invited_by_Allah_to_look_for_in_the_month_of_Ramadan._Specifically,_the_night_is_in_the_last_ten_days_of_Ramadan_and_usually_in_one_of_the_odd_days_(i.e._21,_23,_25,_27_and_29th)._A_Muslim_is_expected_to_perform_naafilah,_recite_the_Qur'an,_do_zikretc_in_the_night._Since_no_one_knows_precisely_which_of_the_odd_days_is_the_night,_Muslims_are_expected_to_be_in_seclusion_(itikaf)_during_the_last_10_days_of_Ramadan_and_the_best_place_to_do_so_is_in_the_mosque.">The last book of Allah to His creatures, Al-Qur'an, was revealed in the night of Ramadan. What this means is that the first divine revelation to Prophet Muhammad(s.a.w) took place in the Night of Ramadan. Allah chose the night because of the special blessings in it. It is called the night of Power (Lailat-ut Qadr) or the night of blessing (Lailat-ul mubarak). The deed in this night is better than the rewards of deeds of 1,000 months (about 83.3 years). Let suppose that a man survived up to 100 years and he consciously witnessed 93 nights of Power, he would have in his account more than 7,750 rewards which exclude all other rewards he earned from doing virtuous deeds. It is this night that all Muslims are invited by Allah to look for in the month of Ramadan. Specifically, the night is in the last ten days of Ramadan and usually in one of the odd days (i.e. 21, 23, 25, 27 and 29th). A Muslim is expected to perform naafilah, recite the Qur'an, do zikretc in the night. Since no one knows precisely which of the odd days is the night, Muslims are expected to be in seclusion (itikaf) during the last 10 days of Ramadan and the best place to do so is in the mosque.It_should_be_mentioned_that_the_Angels_descend_in_succession_during_the_night_of_Power_and_they_go_round_with_special_greeting_of_%22peace%22_till_day_break_when_they_will_move_back_to_their_position._The_number_of_these_angels_is_uncountable_and_they_descend_with_special_command_of_Allah._The_following_chapter_of_the_Qur'an_details_the_event_of_the_night_of_Power_thus:">It should be mentioned that the Angels descend in succession during the night of Power and they go round with special greeting of "peace" till day break when they will move back to their position. The number of these angels is uncountable and they descend with special command of Allah. The following chapter of the Qur'an details the event of the night of Power thus:%22Indeed_We_have_revealed_it_(Qur'an)_in_the_night_of_Power._And_what_will_explain_to_you_what_the_night_of_Power_is?_The_night_of_Power_is_better_than_a_thousand_months._Therein_descends_the_Angels_and_the_Spirit_by_Allah's_permission,_on_every_errand:_(they_say)_Peace%22_(continuously)_till_the_rise_of_Morning!%22_(97:1-5)">"Indeed We have revealed it (Qur'an) in the night of Power. And what will explain to you what the night of Power is? The night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein descends the Angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand: (they say) Peace" (continuously) till the rise of Morning!" (97:1-5)Who_will_like_to_miss_the_Night_after_reading_this_description?_It_is_this_very_reason_that_every_Muslim_wants_to_witness_and_reap_its_full_blessing_by_fasting_during_the_days_of_the_month_of_Ramadan._As_Ramadan_fast_is_inextricably_tied_to_the_Night_of_Power_(see_2:183)_it_follows_that_any_Muslim_who_wishes_to_benefit_from_the_Night_of_Power_must_fast_during_the_month_of_Ramadan._Qur'an_says:">Who will like to miss the Night after reading this description? It is this very reason that every Muslim wants to witness and reap its full blessing by fasting during the days of the month of Ramadan. As Ramadan fast is inextricably tied to the Night of Power (see 2:183) it follows that any Muslim who wishes to benefit from the Night of Power must fast during the month of Ramadan. Qur'an says:%22Ramadan_is_the_(month)_in_which_Qur'an_was_sent_down,_as_a_guide_to_mankind,_and_a_clear_guidance_and_judgement_(so_that_mankind_will_distinguish_right_from_wrong)._Whoever_among_you_witnesses_the_month_of_Ramadan_should_fast_through_it...%22_(2:183)">"Ramadan is the (month) in which Qur'an was sent down, as a guide to mankind, and a clear guidance and judgement (so that mankind will distinguish right from wrong). Whoever among you witnesses the month of Ramadan should fast through it..." (2:183)(v)_To_show_to_Muslims_how_to_get_their_past_sins_forgiven">(v) To show to Muslims how to get their past sins forgivenIslam_is_a_religion_that_stresses_equality:_both_the_poor_and_the_rich_(men_or_women)_are_equal_as_slaves_in_the_sight_of_Allah._In_Islam_the_surest_way_to_obtain_Allah's_forgiveness_for_one's_past_sins_is_Pilgrimage_(the_fifth_pillar_of_Islam)_which_unfortunately_is_easy_for_the_rich_to_afford_the_cost_of_the_journey._The_All-wise,_Allah,_did_not_put_the_poor_Muslims_in_limbo,_rather_He_made_fasting_during_Ramadan_as_a_means_of_placing_the_poor_and_the_rich_on_equal_footing_in_terms_of_asking_for_forgiveness_for_their_past_sins._If_a_Muslim_has_no_means_of_going_for_hajj,_there_should_be_a_way_to_compensate_him/her._The_All-wise_has_chosen_Ramadan_for_all_Muslims_to_get_their_past_sins_forgiven_as_evident_in_this_hadith:">Islam is a religion that stresses equality: both the poor and the rich (men or women) are equal as slaves in the sight of Allah. In Islam the surest way to obtain Allah's forgiveness for one's past sins is Pilgrimage (the fifth pillar of Islam) which unfortunately is easy for the rich to afford the cost of the journey. The All-wise, Allah, did not put the poor Muslims in limbo, rather He made fasting during Ramadan as a means of placing the poor and the rich on equal footing in terms of asking for forgiveness for their past sins. If a Muslim has no means of going for hajj, there should be a way to compensate him/her. The All-wise has chosen Ramadan for all Muslims to get their past sins forgiven as evident in this hadith:Narrated_Abu_Huraira(r.a):_The_Prophet_said:%22..._whoever_fasts_during_Ramadan_with_sincere_faith_and_hoping_for_his_reward_from_Allah_will_have_his_past_sins_forgiven%22">Narrated Abu Huraira(r.a): The Prophet said:"... whoever fasts during Ramadan with sincere faith and hoping for his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven"(Sahih_Al-Bukhari,_vol.3_p.70).">(Sahih Al-Bukhari, vol.3 p.70).Therefore,_Ramadan_fast_unites_Muslims_and_bring_them_together_as_equal_slaves_who_can_be_forgiven_of_their_past_sins_devoid_of_discrimination_in_the_sight_of_Allah.">Therefore, Ramadan fast unites Muslims and bring them together as equal slaves who can be forgiven of their past sins devoid of discrimination in the sight of Allah.(vi)_To_show_that_Fasting_is_the_epitome_of_the_five_pillars_of_Islam">(vi) To show that Fasting is the epitome of the five pillars of IslamIslam_is_built_upon_five_pillars._The_third_pillar_is_siyam_(i.e_fasting_during_Ramadan)._The_wisdom_behind_its_third_position_is_because_it_is_a_fulcrom_upon_which_the_other_four_pillars_(Tawheed,_and_salaat_are_in_first_and_second_positions_while_zakat_and_Hajj_are_in_the_fourth_and_fifth_positions)_are_balanced._It_is_the_only_pillar_that_encompases_all_the_four_other_pillars_in_the_sense_that:">Islam is built upon five pillars. The third pillar is siyam (i.e fasting during Ramadan). The wisdom behind its third position is because it is a fulcrom upon which the other four pillars (Tawheed, and salaat are in first and second positions while zakat and Hajj are in the fourth and fifth positions) are balanced. It is the only pillar that encompases all the four other pillars in the sense that:_(a)_before_one_observes_fast,_s(he)_must_be_a_Muslim,_sane,_matured,_and_free_from_excuses_(such_as_menstruation,_illness,_travelling_long-distances,_child-birth_bleeding,_etc)._And_since_a_Muslim_is_required_to_proclaim_Shahada_(i.e_Tawheed,_the_first_pillar_of_Islam),_fasting_is_directly_tied_to_shahada.__(b)_Salaat_is_the_second_pillar_of_Islam_that_delineates_a_Muslim_from_one_who_is_not;_this_means_that_a_Muslim_must_observe_salaat_regularly_to_become_a_true_Muslim._It_follows_that_fasting_during_Ramadan_without_regular_salaat_is_like_using_a_spoon_to_fill_a_porous_basket_with_water.__(c)_Zakat_(the_compulsory_divine_tax)_is_aimed_to_redistribute_the_Muslims'_wealth_so_that_the_gap_between_the_rich_and_the_poor_is_bridged_to_a_certain_extent._In_Ramadan,_every_fasting_Muslim,_who_is_free_from_insanity,_bondage_etc,_must_pay_Zakat-ul_fitr_on_or_before_the_'Idl_Fitr_day._Zakaat-ul_fitr_is_in_some_sense_a_low-profile_zakat,_though_aimed_to_achieve_similar_result,_is_completely_different_from_zakat._Hajj_is_a_duty_which_Muslims_owe_to_Allah_and_it_is_to_help_the_pilgrims_to_get_their_past_sins_forgiven._Coincidently,_fasting_during_Ramadan_has_the_same_result._From_the_foregoing,_it_can_be_concluded_that_fasting_is_an_epitome_of_the_pillars_of_Islam._Therefore,_every_able-bodied_Muslim_must_fast_to_learn_how_the_other_four_pillars_operate.">

(a) before one observes fast,

s(he) must be a Muslim, sane, matured, and free from excuses (such as menstruation, illness, travelling long-distances, child-birth bleeding, etc). And since a Muslim is required to proclaim Shahada (i.e Tawheed, the first pillar of Islam), fasting is directly tied to shahada.

(b) Salaat is the second pillar of Islam that delineates a Muslim from one who is not; this means that a Muslim must observe salaat regularly to become a true Muslim. It follows that fasting during Ramadan without regular salaat is like using a spoon to fill a porous basket with water.

(c) Zakat (the compulsory divine tax) is aimed to redistribute the Muslims' wealth so that the gap between the rich and the poor is bridged to a certain extent. In Ramadan, every fasting Muslim, who is free from insanity, bondage etc, must pay Zakat-ul fitr on or before the 'Idl Fitr day. Zakaat-ul fitr is in some sense a low-profile zakat, though aimed to achieve similar result, is completely different from zakat. Hajj is a duty which Muslims owe to Allah and it is to help the pilgrims to get their past sins forgiven. Coincidently, fasting during Ramadan has the same result. From the foregoing, it can be concluded that fasting is an epitome of the pillars of Islam. Therefore, every able-bodied Muslim must fast to learn how the other four pillars operate.

">Conclusion">ConclusionThis_article_has_discussed_some_reasons_why_Muslims_do_Ramadan_fast._It_is_not_intended_to_delve_into_the_subject_of_fasting_but_to_help_Muslims_answer_often_repeated_question:_%22why_do_Muslims_fast_during_the_month_of_Ramadan?.%22">This article has discussed some reasons why Muslims do Ramadan fast. It is not intended to delve into the subject of fasting but to help Muslims answer often repeated question: "why do Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan?."May_Allah_give_us_His_support_in_this_world_and_in_the_hereafter_and_give_us_strength_and_good_health_to_be_able_to_fast_during_the_month_of_Ramadan.">May Allah give us His support in this world and in the hereafter and give us strength and good health to be able to fast during the month of Ramadan.Answermuslims_fast_for_many_reasons._the_main_reason_is_to_know_what_it_feels_like_to_starve._Just_like_the_poor_people_who_can_not_make_enouth_money_for_food._Another_reason_is_so_your_body_can_get_a_cleaning_and/or_break_from_food._Another_is_to_get_mind_of_food.__==_Answer_==">muslims fast for many reasons. the main reason is to know what it feels like to starve. Just like the poor people who can not make enouth money for food. Another reason is so your body can get a cleaning and/or break from food. Another is to get mind of food.Fasting_is_one_of_the_five_pillers_of_islam._Ramadan_is_the_ninth_month_of_the_Muslim_calendar._The_Month_of_Ramadan_is_also_when_it_is_believed_the_Holy_Quran_%22was_sent_down_from_heaven,_a_guidance_unto_men,_a_declaration_of_direction,_and_a_means_of_Salvation%22__Fasting_teaches_self-control,_encourages_a_focus_on_prayer_and_the_life_of_the_spirit,_and_allows_practitioners_to_devote_their_attention_to_worship,_and_draw_closer_to_God.">Fasting is one of the five pillers of islam. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. The Month of Ramadan is also when it is believed the Holy Quran "was sent down from heaven, a guidance unto men, a declaration of direction, and a means of Salvation"

Fasting teaches self-control, encourages a focus on prayer and the life of the spirit, and allows practitioners to devote their attention to worship, and draw closer to God.

">addition:">addition:the_above_answer_is_correct..._fasting_also_teaches_Muslims_to_be_thoughtful_and_compassionate._They_can_relate_to_people_who_have_nothing_to_eat.">the above answer is correct... fasting also teaches Muslims to be thoughtful and compassionate. They can relate to people who have nothing to eat.AnswerFasting the month of Ramadan is the fourth pillar of Islam. It's a duty commanded by the Almighty Allah. It teaches many good things like patience,feeling with poor & hungry people & helping them,solidarity in the Islamic community.

The Almighty Allah promised to reward those who fast to obey Him & bessech His favors.

Fasting is considered to be important to Muslims because the Islamic faith is built on five pillars: Shahadah (or the declaration of faith), Salat (prayer five times a day), Sawm (fasting), Zakat (paying alms to charity), and Hajj (the holy pilgrimage to Mekkah). Fasting, especially during Ramadan is considered to have great spiritual value, and it is believed that fasting will allow you to get closer to Allah by means of Taqwa. Muslims believe that fasting allows them to appreciate God and how much he does for them, as well as inducing empathy for those less fortunate. Fasting also helps create a feeling of Umma within the Islamic community as Muslims across the world know that their brothers and sisters are going through the same ordeal that they themselves are.

Not everybody has to fast. Children under the age of 13 (girls) or 14 (boys) are exempt, as are pregnant and breast-feeding women, the elderly and the sick. There are also many things that negate the fast if a person commits them. For example, eating, drinking, sexual activities, smoking, swearing and immoral behaviour all exempt the fast. If a person commits one of these offences, depending on the severity, they would either have to make up the day of fasting, or fast for 60 days after Ramadan ends. If this is not possible, they have to make up the cost of two meals for sixty poor people - this generally equates to being around Â£300.

If a person fasts for the fist six days of Shawwaal, after Eid-ul Fitr, it is said that the benefits in heaven will be as if that person had fasted for a lifetime.

AnswerFasting is one of the five pillars of Islam.Sawm or Fasting

Every year in the month of Ramada-n, all Muslims fast from dawn until sundown--abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations with their spouses.

Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing, are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year if they are healthy and able. Children begin to fast (and to observe prayers) from puberty, although many start earlier.

Although fasting is beneficial to health, it is mainly a method of self-purification and self-restraint. By cutting oneself from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person focuses on his or her purpose in life by constantly being aware of the presence of God. God states in the Qur'an: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may learn self-restraint." (Qur'an 2:183)

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is compulsory on every Muslim adult. The Arabic word sawm is used for fasting. The word sawm (plural siyam) literally means 'to refrain', but as an Islamic term, it means refraining from food, drinks and sexual activity from dawn to sunset. Allah says in the Quran, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2-183): 'O you who believe, siyam is prescribed on you as it was prescribed to those before you so that you may become self-restrained.'

The importance of Siyam in Ramadan is clearly expressed in several sayings of the Prophet(S.A.W.). It is reported by Abu Hurairah that the Prophet said:'He who fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven; he who prays during the night in Ramadan with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven; and he who passes Lailat al- Qadr in prayer with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven.'

(Bukhari and Muslim)

Fasting in Ramadan is practiced by Muslims all over the world. The most significant aspect of Siyam is the development of Allah-consciousness (Taqwa) in the heart and the soul of a fasting Muslim. One must abstain from immoral behavior and attitude as well. Refraining from food and such is essential during fast but it is not sufficient. The Prophet of Allah is reported to have said:'If one does not abandon falsehood in words and deeds, Allah has no need for his abandoning of his food and drink.'

(Al-Bukhari)

WHO IS EXEMPT FROM SAWM?

Fasting is mandatory on every Muslim who is sane, adult, able and resident. The following exemptions apply:

the insane;
children who are not adolescent yet;
the elderly and chronically ill for whom fasting is unreasonably strenuous; Such persons are required to feed at least one poor person every day in Ramadan for which he or she has missed fasting.
pregnant women and nursing may postpone the fasting at a later time;
the ill and the travellers can also defer their fasting.
Allah says in the Qur'an, Surah Al-Baqara:
'But if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period should be made up by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you to difficulties.'
Women during the period of menstruation or of post childbirth confinement. Fasting during these periods is forbidden and should be made up later, a day for a day.

DURATION OF SAWM:

Fasting starts everyday in Ramadan at the break of dawn, which is also the start of the Salatul Fajr time. Fasting ends at sunset or with the call of Salatul Maghrib.

VALIDITY OF FASTING:

The validity of fasting depends on the following:

Abstaining from food, liquids and sexual activity from dawn to sunset.
The intention to fast must be made every day before dawn. The intention (niyyah) may be made during night before going to sleep or it can also be made at the time of Suhoor before dawn. Suhoor is eating before fasting. It should be as close to Fajr time as possible. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) says:
'Partake Suhoor, for there is blessing in Suhoor.'(Bukhari, Muslim) It is desirable to break the fast as soon as possible after sunset. Breaking the fast with dates or water is a tradition of the Prophet. Following is one of the Du'a for breaking fast: Allahumma laka sumtu wa 'ala ridhqika aftartu (O Allah! For You did I fast and with Your bounties did I break the fast.)

The things which invalidate fast are of two kinds. The first one requires Qada (only making up missed days), the other one not only requires Qada but also Kaffarah(a penalty).

The following are the things that require Qada only:

Eating or drinking intentionally. This includes non-nourishing items taken by mouth.
Deliberately causing oneself to throw up.
The beginning of menstruation or post-childbirth bleeding even in the last moment before sunset.
Ejaculation for reasons other than sexual intercourse.
Intending to break the fast before sunset even if one changes his mind, since intention is one of the pre-requisites of the validity of fasting.
Eating, drinking or having intercourse after dawn on the mistaken assumption that it is not dawn yet. Similarly, engaging in these acts before Maghrib on the mistaken assumption that it is already sunset.

Things that not only require Qada but also Kaffarah are the following:

Sexual intercourse during fasting(dawn to dusk). The penalty is to fast an additional period of 60 continuous days. If one is not able to do so then he must feed sixty poor people-one average meal each.

Before the days of the Prophet Muhammad(S.A.W.), slavery was a common practice in the Arab world. Islam eliminated slavery from the society in a very short period of time. A useful approach was to allow people free a slave as a charity or as a penalty for a sin. Thus during the time of the Prophet(S.A.W.), setting a slave free was the penalty one must pay as a kaffarah, if he or she had a slave.

What does not break the fast:

If anyone forgets that he is fasting and eats or drinks, he should complete his fast, for it is only Allah who has fed him and given him drink. (A Hadith from Muslim).
Unintentional vomiting.
Swallowing things which are not possible to avoid, such as one's saliva, street dust, smoke, etc.
Brushing the teeth.
Injection or intra-venous which is solely medical and not nutritional.

Breaking of fast under exceptional conditions:

Muslims are permitted to break the ordained fast of Ramadan when there is danger to their health. In this situation a Muslim should make up his fast later at any other time of the year.

Reference: "Every Day Fiqh" by Maulana Yusuf Islahi, translated by Abdul Aziz Kamal.

COURTESY: Islamic Information & News Network Vol.4 No.43

AnswerFasting is a way of taking away the sins. It's very important to fast. Also, fasting is away of making a Muslim become closer to Allah.

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