14 Sawm – FastingThe principal feature of Ramadan, and that by which it is most known, is fasting (ṣawm). The observance of fasting is the third ‘pillar’ of Islam. It is prescribed in the Qur’an:
"You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of God" (Q 2:183).
The practice of Jews, who observe Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, with fasting, and the practice of Christians who fast particularly during Lent, were obviously known. The Muslims are commanded: “Fast for a specific number of days” (Q 2:184), the specific period being the month of Ramadan.
The fast consists in not allowing anything to enter the body. This means not eating, not drinking (some Muslims even refrain from swallowing their saliva), not smoking or vaping, not using scent, and foregoing sexual intercourse. This fast lasts during the hours of daylight, from the time that one can distinguish a white thread from a black thread until this is no longer possible.
Not everyone is obliged to observe the fast. The Qur’an mentions those who are on a journey, or those who are ill – to whom could be added the elderly, pregnant women or those have just recently given birth or who are breast-feeding – are excused. They should however make up the fast on other days. The Qur’an adds:
"For those who can fast only with extreme difficulty, there is a way to compensate – feed a needy person. But if anyone does good of his own accord, it is better for him, and fasting is better for you, if only you knew" (Q 2:184).
Children too are not obliged to fast, but they are often encouraged to observe the fast for a few days so that they may experience what it is like and may be ready to assume the obligation when they reach the required age.
Fasting is undertaken out of obedience to God, but it also helps to increase awareness of the divine presence and gratitude for divine generosity and protection. It also allows those who forego food and drink to appreciate the difficulties endured by those who suffer from poverty and so can help to increase solidarity.
It would be true to say that the specific period of fasting, during Ramadan, and the particular way of observing the fast, set Muslims apart as a religious community.
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