Fasting During Ramadaan
Q. What are the virtues of fasting during Ramadaan?
A. Great blessings are promised. The Holy Prophet ( ) said that those who fast for Allah’s pleasure have their past sins pardoned. The smell from a fasting person’s mouth is sweeter than musk. Fasting is entirely for Allah and He gives reward for it.
Q. For whom is fasting in Ramadaan fard?
A. Every adult, sane Muslim man or woman. Denying its obligation makes one a kaafir; leaving it without excuse makes one sinful (faasiq). Children are encouraged to start fasting young to form the habit.
Q. What are the excuses which permit leaving of fast?
A.
- Traveling (musaafir), though better to fast if possible
- Suffering from disease aggravated by fasting
- Very old age
- Pregnancy if fasting may harm mother or baby
- Feeding mother if fasting harms her or child
- Extreme thirst or hunger risking death
- Women during their monthly periods