Why fasting ramadan

Muslims are also expected to abstain from engaging in entertainment, sexual activity and speaking or acting in a negative manner, says Hamid. Global News spoke to year-old Taha Sheikh, who was at Masjid Toronto for his regular Friday prayers, about his experience while fasting.

Seniors, very young children, individuals who are chronically ill and pregnant or breastfeeding women are excused from fasting, according to Hamid. Women who are menstruating or individuals who are temporarily ill are also allowed to skip their fasts and make them up at a later time. The dry fast is typically broken with water and dates followed by evening prayers and then a post-fast meal known as iftar. Ramadan is followed by a celebration known as Eid-al-Fitr, or Eid, in which Muslims celebrate the blessings brought to them by the month of Ramadan with a feast, family and friends.

World Canada Local. Why Muslims fast during Ramadan. Children who have not reached puberty, the elderly, those who are physically or mentally incapable of fasting, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and travelers are exempt. Fasting during Ramadan means abstinence from all food or drink, including water and chewing gum, from dawn to sunset. It is recommended that before sunrise, Muslims eat a prefast meal known as suhur. This meal often resembles breakfast, but in some cultures it may include more dinner-like foods.

After sundown, Muslims break their fast with iftar , a meal which usually starts with dates and water or milk, followed by dinner. If it is sighted, the first day of Eid al-Fitr will be observed on Sunday, May Otherwise, Ramadan fasting will carry on for 30 days and Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Wednesday, May Some experts say restricting food intake during the day can help prevent health problems and improve mental health. With many Muslim-majority nations under coronavirus lockdown, millions around the world are to fast from dawn to dusk.

Published On 20 Apr What is Ramadan? Muslims also believe the Quran was revealed in Ramadan. More from Features. Many acts of worship apart from fasting are done during this month. Another act of worship that gains precedence during this month is charity. Like fasting, charity is another pillar of Islam and the Prophet urged Muslims to donate as much as one can to the poor during Ramadan.

While fasting during Ramadan is mandatory for all Muslims, the Quran makes a few exceptions. Pregnant women, the elderly, menstruating women and those whose medical condition prevents them from fasting for instance those who suffer from diabetes are exempted from fasting. However, they are obligated to make up for their missed fasts, later when they are able to do so or they have the option to feed the poor. The month of Ramadan usually has 29 or 30 days.