Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, as it is the month in which the Quran–the sacred religious text of Islam–is believed to have been revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The annual observance of Ramadan is considered one of the five pillars of islam and is characterized as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
Muslims observe Ramadan by abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual affection out of devotion to their creator. Muslims also practice self restraint and approach every situation with kindness, patience, and humility.
By fasting during the daylight hours (dawn until sunset), Muslims restore the centrality of God in their lives and achieve taqwa (God-consciousness)– the main objective. Fasting is also a way to grow empathy and compassion. By abstaining from food or drink, Muslims experience hunger and thirst and therefore develop an understanding of the hardships faced by the poor, encouraging increased charity. Fasting is also a form of self discipline and helps individuals build self control over their own actions, feelings, and desires.
Although the Quran states that fasting is obligatory for all adults who are mentally and physically able, there are some people who are exempt from fasting. All children who have not yet reached puberty are exempt from fasting. There are two types of exemptions from fasting– those that are temporary and require Qada’ (making up of the fast) and those that are permanently exempt and require Fidyah (paying compensation).
The temporary exemptions include those who are sick from a temporary illness, a traveler who is traveling a significant distance (about 53 miles or longer), women during menstruation and post-natal bleeding, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Those who are permanently exempt include the chronically ill, the elderly and frail, and individuals with certain mental health conditions.
While fasting is a major component of Ramadan, there are other aspects that are important to Ramadan such as spiritual devotion, community, charity, and self reflection. Muslims focus on intensive prayer starting with the five daily prayers and special nightly Taraweeh prayers. Key acts include reciting the Quran, breaking the fast, and seeking forgiveness.
