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Fasting in Ramadan is the fourth pillar of Islam. Allah says in the Quran that fasting was prescribed so that we may attain taqwa, God-consciousness (Al-Baqarah 2:183). If you are fasting for the first time, or want to be sure you understand the rules, this guide covers the basics of the Fiqh of fasting in clear language.
What is fasting (sawm)?
Fasting means refraining from food, drink and marital relations from the true dawn (the start of Fajr) until sunset, with the intention of worshipping Allah. It is a time for prayer, Quran, charity and good character as much as hunger and thirst.
Who must fast?
Fasting in Ramadan is obligatory for every Muslim who is:
- adult (has reached puberty),
- of sound mind,
- able to fast, and
- resident (not travelling).
Who is excused?
- The sick and travellers may break the fast and make up the days later.
- Women during menstruation or post-natal bleeding do not fast and make up the days later.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women who fear for themselves or their baby may break the fast; scholars differ on whether they make up the days, pay fidya, or both.
- The elderly and the chronically ill who cannot fast pay fidya, feeding a poor person for each day missed.
The pillars of the fast
- Intention (niyyah): the decision in the heart to fast; it does not need to be spoken.
- Refraining from what breaks the fast from dawn until sunset.
What breaks the fast
- Eating or drinking deliberately.
- Marital relations during the day.
- Deliberate vomiting.
- Menstruation or post-natal bleeding starting.
Eating or drinking by mistake, out of forgetfulness, does not break the fast: the Prophet ﷺ said it is Allah who fed you and gave you drink. Simply stop and continue fasting.
Sunnahs of fasting
- Suhoor: eating a meal before dawn, which the Prophet ﷺ described as blessed.
- Breaking the fast promptly at sunset, ideally with dates and water.
- Making dua, especially at the time of breaking the fast.
- Reading the Quran and praying at night (Taraweeh).
- Guarding the tongue from lying, backbiting and arguing.
Making up missed fasts
Days missed for a valid reason should be made up before the next Ramadan. Deliberately breaking a fast without a valid reason is a serious matter with its own rulings, which a teacher can explain.
Learning the Fiqh of fasting with a teacher
Situations differ from person to person, and the details vary between schools of thought. In one-to-one classes you can ask about your own situation and learn the rulings step by step. Fasting is part of the Fiqh taught in our Islamic studies programs, and new Muslims can follow our new Muslim guide.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do children start fasting?
Fasting becomes obligatory at puberty. Many families let younger children practise with part-day fasts so they are ready.
Does brushing my teeth break the fast?
Brushing without swallowing toothpaste or water does not break the fast, though some scholars prefer avoiding toothpaste. Ask your teacher about your school’s view.
How do I start classes?
Book a free trial class. Classes cost $5 per 30 minutes. See our pricing page.
