Rules for Fasting During Ramadan


The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is observed as the holy month of Ramadan by believers of Islam. It is of extreme religious importance to the Muslim community across the world. Ramadan is of immense importance to the Muslims as they believe that the Holy Quran was unveiled during this time and revealed to the Prophet. Hence Muslims observe stringent food, moral, and religious norms during this holy month. Ramadan fasting rules demand that they observe strict fasts from dawn to dusk. However, they also have to follow specific regulations and practices related to the month of Ramadan.

The month of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims believe this month helps them get rid of all evils related to the body and soul to get closer to Allah. Ramadan is also a time for self-introspection in various aspects. Believers reflect on essential matters associated with pure living, such as self-control, universal brotherhood, and a highly disciplined lifestyle.

According to Ramadan fasting rules, Muslims only consume one meal (Sahur) before dusk and one after sunset (Iftar). Many devotees also perform Umrah during Ramadan. However, Ramadan is not just about fasting. There are many other religious rules to be followed and things to abstain from during this month. What are they? Let’s find out more about dos and don’ts of ramadan.

Things To Do During Ramadan

Ramadan is synonymous with many good virtues of life. They are patience, forgiveness, and being good to others. They all come to the fore during this holy month.

1. Reciting the Holy Quran

Ramadan is when believers think they are the closest to Allah and can communicate better with the Almighty. Religious leaders opine that Muslims must recite the Holy Quran as many times as possible. However, mere recitation is not of much worth. They must also recite the verses carefully and reflect on the deeper meaning of the verses.

2. Offering Prayers

It is mentioned in Islam that all devout Muslims must offer Salat. They must offer prayers to God sincerely five times a day with enthusiasm and passion. Salat is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and helps Muslims seek the forgiveness and guidance of Allah. The five prayers offered during the day are named as follows:

· Salat al-fajr

· Salat al-zuhr

· Salat al- ‘asr

· Salat al-Maghreb

· Salat al- ‘isha

3. Observing Fast Strictly

Fasting during Ramadan rules must be followed very strictly. According to the Islamic culture, fasting during this holy month is considered one of the best traditions of life. Devotees believe that they can receive multiple spiritual rewards by fasting during the month of Ramadan. As it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, fasting must be done with absolute sincerity and by keeping faith in Allah at all times.

4. Indulging in Charity

The holy month of Ramadan ignites positivity in the minds of devotees and instills the feeling of compassion and brotherhood in them. Islam states that people must give away a part of their wealth (Zakat) and earnings to charity during this month. It will help the needy. Zakat can be provided in the form of food, kind, or cash.

5. Practicing Self-Discipline and Self-Control

Devotees must strictly practice self-discipline and self-control in ample measure during Ramadan. This season signifies the spirit of compassion, self-control, and self-discipline.

 

6. Observing Celibacy

Ramadan is the time for prayers and good thoughts. It is the season associated with the purity of the body and the mind, resulting in a stronger bond with Allah. Muslims must not bring any evil or non-pious thoughts into their mind and ensure they observe celibacy during this period.

7. Addressing Everyone Respectfully

Devotees are expected to remain calm and tolerant during the month of Ramadan. They must also seek and practice compassion and forgiveness. Ramadan is associated with brotherhood, and that’s why it is seen that the whole community practices this Holy Festival as one large family, wherever they are.

8. Dressing in a Simple and Appropriate Manner

Ramadan and modesty go hand in hand. It is time to remain simple and practical. It begins with the way of dressing. No one is expected to go flashy with their dresses and show off. Ramadan is the time to dress in a simple, straightforward manner. Devotees and the whole community must keep away from ill-fitting and fancy dresses.

 

9. Wishing your Friends and Loved Ones

Ramadan is the time for meetings and confabulations among families, friends, and relatives. It is a must for family members to have their meals on time and together during Ramadan. People also host Iftar dinners and share food and gifts on the occasion.

10. Encouraging Unity

Ramadan is the time to meet and strengthen bonds. Meeting times are more frequent during this month as friends and families come together to pray and dine.

Things To Avoid During Ramadan

We have seen what people do during the holy month of Ramadan. Now let’s take a look at what one must not do during this season.

· Consuming Food and Water

Ramadan is associated with strict fasting from dawn to dusk. People must steer clear of all types of food during Ramadan. Even drinking water is not allowed from dawn to dusk.

· Holding Grudges

Ramadan and forgiveness go hand in hand. Obviously, all types of rancor, bitterness, hatred, and grudges must be buried. People ask for forgiveness from Allah during Ramadan.

· Chewing Gum & Other Prohibited Products

People must refrain from all types of vices during Ramadan, including chewing gum or tobacco or indulging in smoking.

· Entertainment & Loud Music

Fasting is a pious act. Many elders in the family remain entirely focused on prayers and remembering Allah during this time. One must respect their sentiments and also follow the rules of Ramadan by not indulging in any form of entertainment.

· Wasting Time

Ramadan being the most pious period in the life of a Muslim, the focus should be on making the best use of time. It must be used for constructive purposes instead of wasting time watching inane TV shows and programs, sleeping, and shopping.

As we have seen, the holy month of Ramadan is about abstaining from food and drinks, but it is also about discipline, brotherhood, peace, and unity. The heart and soul of the devotee must be in perfect synchrony with Allah.


Ashish jha

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