Sawm (Fasting) - 10 Questions
1. What is Sawm?
Sawm is the Islamic practice of fasting, primarily during the month of Ramadan, where Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset.
2. Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Muslims fast during Ramadan to fulfill a religious obligation, develop self-discipline, increase piety, and empathize with the less fortunate.
3. What are the rules of Sawm?
The main rules of Sawm include abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). Intention (Niyyah) must be made before fasting.
4. Who is exempt from fasting?
Certain individuals are exempt from fasting, including the elderly, sick, pregnant or breastfeeding women, travelers, and children who have not reached puberty.
5. What are the benefits of fasting?
Fasting offers spiritual benefits such as increased devotion, self-control, and closeness to Allah. Physically, it can improve health and promote a sense of community through shared experiences.
6. What is Suhoor?
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal consumed before the fast begins. It is recommended to eat this meal to gain strength for the day of fasting ahead.
7. What is Iftar?
Iftar is the meal with which Muslims break their fast at sunset. It typically begins with dates and water, following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
8. Can fasting be broken? If so, when?
Fasting can be broken if one has a valid reason, such as illness or travel. However, for those who intentionally break the fast without a valid reason, it is considered a sin.
9. What are the spiritual rewards of fasting?
Fasting is believed to bring numerous spiritual rewards, including forgiveness of sins, mercy from Allah, and the promise of Paradise for those who sincerely fast.
10. What is the significance of fasting outside Ramadan?
Fasting outside of Ramadan, such as on Mondays and Thursdays or during the six days of Shawwal, is encouraged as it can bring additional rewards and spiritual benefits.