Fasting (Sawm) - 3rd Pillar of Islam

The fast begins with Suhoor, a light and nutritious meal taken before Fajr (dawn prayer). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged Muslims to take Suhoor, saying:

“Partake in Suhoor, for indeed there is a blessing in it.”

– (Bukhari & Muslim)

Eating Suhoor provides energy and helps sustain the fast throughout the day.

From Fajr (dawn) to Maghrib (sunset), Muslims abstain from:

• Food and drink (including water)
• Marital relations
• Smoking
• Negative behavior (lying, backbiting, arguing)

The goal is not just physical abstinence but spiritual purification.

The fast is broken immediately after sunset with Iftar, traditionally with:

• Dates and water (as per the Sunnah)
• Followed by the Maghrib prayer
• Then a full meal

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“When one of you breaks his fast, let him do so with dates; if he cannot find them, then with water. For it is pure.” – (Abu Dawood)

After Iftar and Isha prayer, Muslims pray Taraweeh, special nightly prayers in Ramadan. Many aim to complete the entire Qur’an during these nights, seeking blessings and forgiveness, especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan.

One of the last ten nights (usually the 27th) holds Laylat al-Qadr, a night more blessed than a thousand months. Muslims increase worship, recitation, and dua during this time.

Fasting nurtures a deep sense of Taqwa – being mindful of Allah in every action. By resisting temptations, a person strengthens their self-control and becomes more aware of the presence of Allah in daily life.

During Ramadan, Muslims engage more in Qur’an recitation, prayers, Dua, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). This enhances spiritual closeness and builds a stronger relationship with the Creator.

Fasting makes one appreciate blessings like food, water, and comfort, which are often taken for granted. It reminds Muslims of the struggles faced by the poor and hungry, encouraging humility and thankfulness.

Ramadan is a training ground for the soul. By controlling anger, negative thoughts, and harmful speech, fasting improves character, instills patience, and polishes one’s inner self.

Abstaining from food and drink gives the digestive system a break, helping the body eliminate toxins. This natural detox process refreshes the body and promotes better organ function.

Fasting can help reduce body fat and support metabolic health. With a balanced suhoor and iftar, many people experience controlled weight and better energy levels.

Ramadan fasting has shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), thus improving heart health when done responsibly.

Many people report enhanced mental clarity, alertness, and emotional calmness during fasting. With fewer distractions from constant eating, the brain becomes more focused and sharp.

Iftar meals bring families, friends, and communities together, creating stronger bonds. Mosques fill with worshippers in Taraweeh prayers, enhancing the spirit of togetherness.

Fasting deepens empathy for the needy, increasing acts of charity (Sadaqah) and generosity. Ramadan is also the month of Zakat, another pillar of Islam, promoting justice and support for the less fortunate.