Fasting: The Third pillar of Islam

Fasting in Islam

What is the third pillar of Islam and why is it so important? Fasting, or sawm in Arabic, is a spiritual practice that involves giving up food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to dusk during the holy month of Ramadan. But fasting is more than just a physical challenge. It is also a way of worshiping Allah (SWT), developing self-discipline, and enhancing our spirituality.

The Quran uses the Arabic word “sawm” to describe fasting. The word sawm literally means “to abstain”. Fasting the third pillar of Islam is an integral and significant religious practice, deeply rooted in its history and faith. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the core acts of worship and practice that define the life of a devout Muslim. Fasting in Islam is a means of spiritual growth, self-discipline, and drawing closer to Allah (SWT). Fasting during the month of Ramadan is the most well-known and widely observed form of fasting in Islam. There are other types of fasting as well.

Every Muslim performs the five pillars of Islam, which are the basic acts of worship. If you want to learn more about each pillar in detail and explain how they relate to each other Click on the given link: Five Pillars of Islam

Ramadan: The Holy Month of Fasting

This is the most important and widely observed form of fasting in Islam. It takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, known as Ramadan. Ramadan shifts about 11 days earlier each year on the solar-based Gregorian calendar. Ramadan is the most sacred month for Muslims and holds great spiritual and historical importance. It’s the month when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a guide for all of humanity. Muslims experience Ramadan in different seasons throughout the course of their lives. Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree) is a special night during the last ten days of Ramadan, believed to be better than a thousand months.

Allah (SWT) says in the Quran;

Ramaḍan is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the decisive authority. So whoever is present this month, let them fast.(Surah al-Baqarah 2:185)

In Other place Allah (SWT) says;

But whoever is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful. (Surah al-Baqarah 2:185)

During this month, Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). This includes abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations during daylight hours.People eat Suhoor as the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins, and they have Iftar to break the fast at sunset. If you want to learn more about Ramadan click on the link: What is Ramadan, and why is it Important for Muslims?

Voluntary Fasts

In addition to fasting during Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to observe voluntary fasts throughout the year. Some examples of voluntary fasts include:

1. Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays: It is a Sunnah (tradition of the Prophet Muhammad SAW) to fast on these days.
2. Fasting on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each Islamic lunar month: These days are known as the “white days.”
3. Fasting on the Day of Arafah: This fast is observed on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah.
4. Fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram (Aashura): It is recommended to fast on both these days.
5. Six Days of Shawwal: Fasting six days after Ramadan is highly rewarding and considered as if one has fasted the entire year.

Fasting on Ashura is highly recommended, but not obligatory, for Muslims. If you want to learn more about Click on the given link: The Importance of Karbala and Fasting on Ashura in Islam

Fasting for Atonement (Kaffara)

If a Muslim breaks their fast during Ramadan intentionally or by engaging in sexual intercourse during daylight hours. They must make up for it by fasting for 60 consecutive days or by feeding 60 needy people.

Fasting to Make Up Missed Days (Qada)

If a Muslim is unable to fast during Ramadan due to illness, travel, pregnancy, or other valid reasons. They must make up for the missed fasts at a later time, known as Qada fasting, which allows individuals to fulfill their Ramadan fasting obligation when they are able.

For more information, visit our blog How to Make Up Missed Fasts?.

Days of Fasting Forbidden:

In Islam, specific days forbid or strongly discourage fasting. Here are some of the days when Islam either forbids or discourages fasting:

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast”. It is a joyous festival that marks the end of Ramadan. It is a day of celebration,
thanksgiving, and communal prayer. Fasting on Eid al-Fitr is forbidden because it is a day of feasting and showing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for the successful completion of Ramadan.

Celebrate the blessings of Ramadan with Eid-ul-Fitr. Learn about its beautiful customs here!

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another important Islamic festival. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah’s (SWT) command. Islam forbids fasting on Eid al-Adha as it is a day of sacrifice, communal prayer, and celebration. Instead of fasting, Muslims who can afford it are encouraged to perform the act of Qurbani (animal sacrifice) and distribute the meat among family, friends, and the needy.

Days of Tashreeq

The 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah are known as the Days of Tashreeq, occurring immediately after the Eid al-Adha. Islam discourages fasting on these days, particularly for those who have performed the Qurbani sacrifice, as they are meant for feasting, celebrating, and making supplications to Allah (SWT).

Sunnah Of Fasting

Fasting the third pillar of Islam according to the Sunnah involves following the recommended practices and etiquettes associated with fasting. Observing fasting in this manner not only fulfills the religious obligations but also brings additional spiritual rewards. Here is a guide on how to fast according to the Sunnah

Intention (Niyyah)

The intention to fast is essential. Before starting your fast each day, make a sincere intention in your heart to fast for the sake of Allah (SWT) and to seek His pleasure. While the intention doesn’t have to be verbalized, it should be genuine and sincere.

Suhoor (Pre-dawn Meal)

It is Sunnah to have a pre-dawn meal known as Suhoor. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged eating Suhoor even if it is just a sip of water and a few dates. People should take the Suhoor meal shortly before the Fajr (dawn) prayer. It is a Sunnah to wake up early and eat a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor. This meal gives you energy for the day and is a blessed act encouraged by the Prophet (PBUH).

Stay Calm and Avoid Anger:

During fasting, it’s a Sunnah to remain patient and control your temper. Avoid getting angry or swearing, as fasting is not just about food but also about good behavior.

Iftar (Breaking the Fast)

At sunset, when the Maghrib prayer time begins, Muslims should break their fast with a meal known as Iftar. The Sunnah is to break the fast with an odd number of dates and water, following the tradition of the Prophet (SAW). After this, people should perform the Maghrib prayer and then consume a more substantial meal.

Supplication (Dua) at Iftar

The Prophet encouraged making specific supplications at the time of Iftar, including: “O Allah, for You I have fasted, and with Your provision, I break my fast.”

Recitation of Quran

Fasting is an excellent time to recite and reflect upon the Quran. The Sunnah is to read and listen to the Quran throughout the month of Ramadan. Many Muslims aim to complete the recitation of the Quran during this month.

Extra Acts of Worship

Engage in extra acts of worship, such as performing additional prayers called Taraweeh prayer, which are offered at night during Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (SW) encouraged praying Taraweeh in the congregation at the mosque.

Seeking Forgiveness and Repentance

Ramadan is a time to seek forgiveness and repent for our sins by doing istighfar. The Prophet (Peace be upon Him) stress the importance of turning to Allah (SWT) with a sincere heart and asking for His pardon during this blessed month.

Acts of Charity (Sadaqah and Zakat)

Islam highly encourages giving to the needy and helping those less fortunate during Ramadan. Muslims should strive to be generous and perform acts of charity, including giving Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and fulfilling their obligatory Zakat obligations.

If You want to learn more read our other article: Islamic Charity: Sadaqah, Zakat, and More

Avoiding Sinful Behavior

Fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink. Muslims should also avoid sinful behavior, including lying, backbiting, gossiping and
anger. Ramadan is a time to improve one’s character and strengthen one’s relationship with Allah.

Maintaining Good Character

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) stress the importance of maintaining good character and being kind and compassionate to others. This is especially important during the fasting month.

Gratitude and Patience

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims should express gratitude for Allah’s (SWT) blessings and show patience in the face of difficulties and challenges that may arise during fasting.

By following these Sunnah practices, Muslims can make the most of their fasting experience during Ramadan and gain spiritual growth, self-discipline, and closeness to Allah (SWT).

Exemptions and Flexibility in Fasting

Islam understands that fasting can be difficult or impossible for some individuals due to their circumstances. To ensure fairness and compassion, certain groups of people are exempt from fasting. For example, pregnant and nursing women are excused to protect their health and the well-being of their child. Similarly, travelers and those who are ill or facing health issues are also exempt, as fasting might cause additional hardship for them.

In cases where chronic illness or other permanent conditions make fasting impossible, individuals can pay Fidya, a charitable compensation used to feed a person in need for each missed fast. For those who are temporarily unable to fast, such as during illness or travel, Islam encourages them to make up their missed fasts at a later time when they are able. This system ensures that fasting remains a meaningful and manageable act of worship for everyone, reflecting the flexibility and mercy inherent in Islamic teachings.

Conclusion

Fasting in Islam goes beyond physical restraint—it’s about spiritual growth, self-reflection, and fostering a stronger connection with Allah (SWT). Whether through obligatory or voluntary fasts, this act of worship instills patience, gratitude, and compassion for others. Reflect on the lessons fasting teaches and approach it with a renewed perspective. Which aspect of fasting do you find most meaningful? Share your thoughts!

Last Updated on January 27, 2025 by Fatima Rafique