A bit late, but happy Ramadan! More than 35 countries started fasting on Monday, and a few others on Sunday and Tuesday.

Some simple questions have been answered below for non-Muslims.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is a month in the Islamic Calender in which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, drinking no fluids and eating nothing.

Why do you fast?

Fasting weakens the temptations and desires, and so a Muslim can focus more on worship. It helps the Muslim strengthen his/her willpower. Also fasting reminds one of the hunger and thirst a poor person goes through and so a Muslim is encouraged to give more money and food to charity.

“The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance to men and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein…” [Quran al-Baqarah 2:185]

Isn’t fasting bad for you?

Fasting detoxifies the body as well as gives the liver a bit of a rest.

What about those who can’t fast?

The elderly, young, and seriously ill are exempt from having to fast.

Does Islam command fasting?

Yes.

“O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious) [Quran al-Baqarah 2:183]

Allah says in a hadith qudsi: “Fasting is for Me and I will reward for it. He gives up his desire and his food and drink for My sake.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 7492; Muslim, 1151.

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