Suhoor and Iftar times (the latter corresponds to Maghrib prayer times) for Russian cities for the current year are presented in a table available for download.

Fasting (uraza, ruza) is one of the pillars of Islam, so its observance is mandatory for Muslims.

Usually, a layman understands Muslim fasting as abstinence from eating and drinking during daylight hours. In fact, this concept is much broader: it includes a voluntary refusal not only from eating, but also from committing any sins committed by the eyes, hands and tongue, as well as from certain actions. Being in a state of holding an uraza, the believer must be clearly aware that he is doing this for the sake of his Creator, and not have any other intentions.

In Islamic doctrine, depending on the time of observance and significance, two types of fasting are distinguished: obligatory (fard) and desirable (sunnat).

The first is massively observed by Muslims during the Holy month of Ramadan, which has an incomparable blessing for people. In His Scripture, Allah guides us:

“In the month of Ramadan, the Qur'an was sent down - the right guidance for the people, clear evidence of the right guidance and discernment. Whoever of you finds this month must fast" (2:185)

A huge reward awaits Muslims who adhere to the Uraza in the blessed month, and severe punishment will certainly follow for leaving it without a good reason. The proof of this is the following statement of the Mercy of the worlds of Muhammad (s.g.v.): “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and hope for the reward of the Almighty, his former sins will be forgiven” (the hadith is cited by Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

However, the Lord made obligatory observance of the Uraza not for all people.

Who does not need to keep a post:

1. Non-Muslims

An important condition for observing the Uraza is the practice of Islam by a person. For others, posting is optional. At the same time, this does not mean that for the days spent without fasting during the months of Ramadan, every person, regardless of his religion, will not have to answer to the Almighty on the Day of the Great Judgment.

2. Minors

Uraza is imputed as mandatory for adults. At the same time, it is necessary to understand that from the Islamic point of view, adulthood is meant, which does not occur at the age of 18, as is customary in most countries of the world, but during puberty, which occurs differently for each person.

3. Mentally disabled

Mental capacity is listed among the conditions of obligatory fasting. In other words, a person who is not of sound mind has the right to refrain from observing this pillar of Islam.

4. Everyone who is on the road

Keeping an eye is not necessary for those people who are on the road, that is, travelers. It should be noted that, according to Sharia, travelers are considered to be people who have traveled more than 83 km from home and their journey lasts no more than 15 days.

5. Physically ill people

People who suffer from any disease that requires constant medication, or threatens with severe ailments and pains, up to a threat to life in case of observance of the uraza, are exempted from its need.

6. Pregnant

Women who are carrying a child and fear for the life of their future child have the right not to fast in the month of Ramadan.

7. Breastfeeding women

Women who are breastfeeding babies may not fast as well.

8. Women on the days of menstruation and bleeding caused by childbirth

In the menstrual period and during postpartum bleeding, women, according to Sharia, are in a position of ritual defilement, which is why non-observance of the uraza is allowed and, moreover, necessary. If pregnant and lactating women have the right to fast, then these days it is better for women to abstain.

9. People who are unconscious

Believers who remain in an unconscious state for a long time, for example, in a coma state, for obvious reasons, are also freed from uraza.

In situations where a person misses one or more days of fasting for the reasons listed above, he should make up for them later, when the reason that gives the right to not fast is eliminated, for example, when the traveler returns home or the person comes out of a coma. Believers who are not able to keep uraza during the year, for example, due to illness, should feed one needy for each of the missed days. If this is also difficult for a person in material terms, because he himself is among the needy, then he is completely freed from this obligation.

Desired post- this is one whose observance is desirable, but not imputed to Muslims as mandatory. The believer is rewarded for observing such a fast, but there is no sin for leaving him.

Days when it is desirable to keep uraza:

• Day of Araf- for fasting on this day, the Lord can forgive a person for the sins committed by him for 2 years. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) explained: “Fasting on the Day of Arafah serves as atonement for sins committed in the past and future years” (hadith from Ibn Maji and Nasai).

• Day of Ashura- For those who fast on the tenth day of the month of Muharram, all sins for the previous 12 months are erased. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) admonished his ummah: “Fasting serves as an atonement for the sins of the past year” (Muslim cites the hadith). However, Shiite theologians assure that it is undesirable to keep the uraza on this day, since on this date the grandson of the Final Prophet (S.G.V.) - Imam Hussein, who is especially revered by Shiite Muslims, was martyred.

• First 9 days of Zul Hijah- this can be found mentioned in the hadith: “Fasting in the first days of the month of Zul-Hijja is equivalent to one year of fasting” (Ibn Maja).

• Month of Muharram- Uraza in this forbidden month is considered Sunnat. After all, the Prophet Muhammad himself once said: “After Ramadan, the best month for fasting is the month of Allah - Muharram” (Muslim cites the hadith).

• Month of Shaaban- Another month during which it is desirable to fast. In the lunar calendar, it comes before Ramadan. In the hadiths from Bukhari there is a mention that the Final Messenger of the Almighty (s.g.v.) was zealous in observing Uraza in the month of Shaaban, except for some days.

• 6 days of Shawwal- also desirable for the post. Shawwal follows the holy month of Ramadan. “If someone completed the fast in Ramadan and added to it six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal, he will receive such a reward as if he had fasted all year” (hadith from Muslim).

• Uraza in a day, or the fast of the Prophet Daoud (a.s.), who held the fast every other day and which, as the Grace of the Worlds Muhammad (s.g.v.) said, “is the most beloved fast for Allah” (in accordance with the hadith from Muslim).

• 3 days in the middle of each month- The Prophet (S.G.V.) instructed: “If you want to fast in the middle of the month, then fast on the 13th, 14th and 15th days” (at-Tirmidhi).

• Every Monday and Thursday- it was during these days that the Messenger of the Almighty (s.g.v.) regularly observed uraza. “The deeds of the people are presented to Allah on Monday and Thursday,” he said. “And I want my deeds to be presented while I am fasting” (hadith quoted by at-Tirmidhi).

Fasting times in Islam

It is known that in Islam, fasting is observed during daylight hours. The countdown starts at dawn. In the Holy Book of Muslims you can find the verse:

“Eat and drink until you can tell the white thread at dawn from the black, and then fast until night” (2:187)

The fasting person must stop morning reception food (suhoor) before the time of Fajr prayer (usually 30 minutes).

Once one of the ascetics asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about what time interval should be between suhoor and azan for morning prayer, to which he replied: “As much as is necessary to read fifty verses” (hadith from Bukhari and Muslim).

The end of the time of fasting (iftar) comes at sunset and coincides with the time of the evening prayer. In this case, after fasting, the believer should first break his fast, and then proceed to prayer.

At the end of the suhoor, the following dua is read (niyat):

نَوَيْتُ أَنْ أَصُومَ صَوْمَ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ مِنَ الْفَجْرِ إِلَى الْمَغْرِبِ خَالِصًا لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى

Transcription:“Nahuatu an-assumma sauma shahri Ramadaan min al-fajri il al-maghribi haalisan lil Layakhi tya’aala”

Translation:“I have determined to fast the month of Ramadan from dawn to dusk sincerely for the sake of Allah.”

Immediately after breaking the fast - at iftar - they say dua:

اللَهُمَّ لَكَ صُمْتُ وَ بِكَ آمَنْتُ وَ عَلَيْكَ تَوَكَلْت وَ عَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ فَاغْفِرْلِى يَا غَفَّارُ مَا قَدَّمْتُ وَ مَأ اَخَّرْتُ

Transcription:“Allahumma lakaya sumtu wa bikya amantu wa alaikya tavakkaltu wa ‘ala rizkykya aftartu faqfirli ya gaffaru ma kaddyamtu wa ma akhhartu”

Translation:“O Allah! For Your sake, I kept a fast, I believed in You, and I only trust in You, I break my fast with what You sent me. Forgive me, O Forgiver of my sins, past and future!”

Actions that violate the mind

1. Deliberate receptionm of food and smoking

If a fasting person consciously ate or drank something, lit a cigarette, then his uraza that day will not be accepted. But if he ate something unintentionally, for example, out of forgetfulness, then in this case the person should stop eating or drinking as soon as he remembered his fast, and he can continue to keep the fast - such a fast will be considered valid.

2. Intimacy

After sexual intercourse, fasting is broken. Lip-to-lip kissing and ejaculation due to conscious stimulation (masturbation) have similar effects.

3. Instillation of medicine into the nose and ears

Uraza becomes invalid as soon as a person uses special medications used for instillation into the nose and auditory canal if they enter the larynx. At the same time, injections that are made into a vein or muscle, as well as eye drops, do not break the fast.

4. Swallowing liquid when gargling

When observing a fast, care must be taken when gargling for medicinal purposes or just to moisten - getting water inside will invalidate your fast. Swimming in a pond and taking a bath in a state of uraza is permissible, but one should beware of the penetration of liquid through the sinuses, pharynx and ears.

5. Use of medical inhalers

During fasting, the use of inhalers should be avoided whenever possible.

6. Intentionally inducing vomiting

If the person holding the uraza intentionally caused vomiting, then his fast is considered violated. If vomiting did not occur by the will of the person, then the fast remains valid.

7. Menstruation

In a situation where a woman has a seizure during daylight hours, she should stop fasting. She will need to make up this day after the end of her period.

Benefits of fasting

This pillar of Islam has many virtues for the believers who follow it.

Firstly, uraza is able to lead a person into the Gardens of Eden, which can be confirmed in the biography of the Prophet (S.G.V.): “Truly, in Paradise there is a gate called “Ar-Rayyan”, through which the Day of Judgment will enter fasting. And no one will enter through this gate except them ”(hadith from Bukhari and Muslim).

Secondly, fasting will serve as an intercessor for a Muslim on the Day of Judgment: “Fasting and the Koran on the Day of Judgment will intercede for the servant of Allah” (hadith from Ahmad).

Thirdly, uraza entails, as was said earlier.

In addition, all the requests of a believer who fasts will be accepted by the Almighty. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “A dua is never rejected by a fasting person during breaking the fast” (Ibn Maja).

Every religion has different fasts. They are long and short, especially revered and less revered. For Muslims, the most important is the fast of Ramadan, which falls on the month of the same name. It is obligatory for all believers. The Muslim fast has some differences, for example, from the Christian fast in its modern form, although the spiritual goal is the same in both cases.

What is Ramadan and how did it originate?

The Muslim fast of Ramadan is one of the most important events of this religion. It is obligatory and one of the five pillars of Islam. Although, according to legend, the Prophet Muhammad was unfavorable to asceticism, but he himself established this post. It falls on the ninth month lunar calendar, and since lunar year shorter than the Gregorian, then every year there is a shift in the beginning of fasting by eleven days earlier than the previous one. Its name coincides with the name of the month of Ramadan, but in the Turkic languages ​​it is most often called Uraza.

It was in this month that the first revelation from the Lord was given to the prophet Muhammad, which was given to him by the angel Jabrail. Such revelations subsequently entered the Qur'an. The first revelation was received on the night of the twenty-seventh, and it is believed that on this day Allah is most favorable to the believers. When does it start muslim post, then in daytime You should completely stop eating. Other austerities are also observed, which will be discussed in more detail below.

It should be noted that the time of the beginning of the fast and the time of exit from it is determined by the area in which the fasting person is located. If a believer began his fast in one place, but for certain reasons he had to go to another, and there it ends a day or two earlier, then this should be accepted. The day of leaving Ramadan should be met with everyone, and the missed days should be moved to another time.

What is the purpose of fasting for Muslims

The essence of Muslim fasting is the manifestation of one's willpower over the desires of the flesh for the sake of the triumph of the spirit. At this time, the believer needs to concentrate on his inner world in order to find his sinful inclinations and destroy them, as well as repent of those sins that have been committed. It is very important to fight pride at this time in order to sincerely humble yourself before the will of the Creator.

Ramadan should reflect on your life, rethink life values, what is truly important and what is superficial. This strengthens the faith spiritual growth a believer and, possibly, a change in life priorities.

Actions prohibited and permitted during Ramadan

The Muslim post in has a number of prohibited actions that violate its course, and permitted. We list them below.

• Do not intentionally eat or drink.
• Smoking is prohibited.
• During fasting, sexual intercourse is prohibited if it leads to ejaculation.
• Do not administer drugs rectally and vaginally (in this case, it is better to postpone the post).
• The fast is considered invalid if the intent has not been uttered. This is done every day.
• Do not swallow moisture, which even involuntarily enters the mouth. That is why during the fasting period it is not recommended to swim and you need to take a shower with caution.
• You can brush your teeth, but be careful not to swallow water or toothpaste in the process.
• Swallowing saliva is not considered a violation of the fast.
• It is allowed to donate blood or do bloodletting during Ramadan.
• You can also administer drugs by injection.

Eating while fasting

In the month of Muslim fasting, there are only two meals. The first time a believer eats before the sun will rise(this is a prerequisite). This pre-dawn breakfast is called suhoor. This is a mandatory action, since it is believed that a Muslim in this case will receive more reward, as he will perform all the actions prescribed by the prophet Muhammad. Then, after sunrise, the believer should not eat anything.

The evening meal is called iftar. It is performed after sunset and prayer and, of course, local time is taken into account). Late meals are not recommended. The breaking of the fast takes place with a small amount of dates, and then you can eat fully, but very modestly. However, all dishes are quite satisfying and there are a lot of them, because this month it is customary to treat not only your family, but also other people. In fasting, you must at least once invite neighbors, friends, distant relatives to visit you and feed them.

It should be noted that at night the believer is obliged to pronounce the intention. This is a phrase that speaks of the desire to fast for the sake of Allah. It can be in any form and must be pronounced with the heart. If the phrase was not uttered, then the day of fasting is considered invalid. It is said at night between prayers.

Many believers from other religions are surprised by this way of fasting, but the ancient Christians also had this kind of fasting. The whole day they did not eat food and prayed earnestly, only after Vespers they could eat a certain amount of food in order to maintain strength in their bodies. Over time, in the Christian tradition, the type of fasting changed somewhat, as a result, they only excluded certain types of food from their diet. Thus, the type of fasting that is now preserved in Islam has rather ancient roots.

Leaving a post

The Muslim fast ends in thirty days on the first day of the month of Shawwal. In honor of this, they arrange a real holiday, which is called Eid al-Fitr. On this day, believers break their fast and perform a festive prayer. Alms should also be paid on this (fast). This is done in the mosque or for those who need help. You should also visit the mosque, and then celebrate the end of the fast with relatives and close friends.

Who can not fast

Fasting in the month of Ramadan in the Muslim tradition may not be observed in the following cases:

• If a person is sick and it is very difficult or impossible for him to fast.
• Pregnant and lactating women also do not observe Ramadan.
• Children who have not reached puberty.
• Old people, infirm and incurable patients, however, they must feed the poor or pay a certain amount.
• Also, people on the road may not observe the fast, but they must make up for it after the journey is completed. However, if they have begun abstinence in food, then interruption is not allowed, even if they had to leave. For non-observance of fasting, the journey must be long, at least eighty-three kilometers from home.
• Ramadan may not be observed by non-Muslims (for them, it is considered invalid).
• Mentally ill people who are in a clouded mind.

It should be noted that even if believers do not fast, it is not allowed to defiantly eat, drink and smoke in front of other believers.

Conclusion

So, as we can see, the great Muslim fast is very important for all believers. At this time, a person becomes closer to the Lord due to the rejection of everything superfluous that usually accompanies his life. In addition, during the Muslim fast there is a spiritual unity with loved ones, as everyone supports each other in this pious deed, and also have numerous conversations about the spiritual.

Nersesov Dmitry 06/16/2016 at 14:33

Muslim holy month of Ramadan- month of post. This is both a severe test and a great holiday. What is the spiritual meaning of Ramadan? What restrictions does it place on believers? Who can not fast? And how to determine the time of fasting, which lasts in the daytime, if you live in the Arctic Circle? About it live video studio True.Ru Denis-Khazret Mustafin, Deputy Head of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Moscow and the Central Region "Moscow Muftiate" told.

Five conditions for fasting in Ramadan

- What does the month of Ramadan mean for Muslims?

The month of Ramadan is the month of fasting. I will answer according to the precepts of the Koran. Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, just as it was prescribed for those who were before you - maybe you will be God-fearing!" That is, fasting, first of all, is the order of Allah Almighty, his covenant. This is an obligatory worship in Islam.

As we know, Islam consists of five pillars. The first is evidence that there is no God but one God - Allah, and the Prophet Muhammad is his slave and messenger. The second pillar is the five daily prayers. The third pillar is the payment of zakat. The fourth obligatory pillar of Islam is fasting. Our fifth pillar is Hajj.

- Hajj is a mandatory pilgrimage?

For Muslims, yes. Pilgrimage to Mecca, to the sacred Kaaba is made once in a lifetime, in a certain period of time. But a Muslim is obliged to fast every year in the month of Ramadan.

In addition to the obligatory fast, we also have additional fasts that are performed during the year at the request of a person. Fasting in the verse of the Qur'an is denoted by the word saum, the root of this word, translated from Arabic, means refraining from eating and drinking, as well as refraining from talking.

Abstinence according to Sharia is abstinence from drinking, eating, smoking and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset. This is the Sharia meaning. There are also mandatory conditions for fasting. First, the person must be a Muslim. Second: a person must be healthy. The third condition: a person must be reasonable, be aware of himself. And the fourth point: a person must know that fasting is obligatory for him. Under these four conditions, a person must fast.

Month of the Quran

- B Are pregnant women not required to fast?

Yes. There are categories of people who do not need to fast. This, including sick people who are not healthy. This category also includes women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, because there is a possibility that if they fast, it will harm both them and their children. Another category of people who do not fast are the elderly, especially weak old people who do not have the strength to fast.

- And, for example, military personnel in the line of duty? After all, it is quite difficult to fast if you are sitting at the remote control or standing on the clock, guarding something?

There is no problem with the post. For any person, it will not be difficult, regardless of what he does, if a person has a clear, rigid intention to fast. The Prophet Mohammed says that every deed is according to intention. If a person has set himself the goal of doing something good - for example, fasting for the whole month of Ramadan - he will do it without any difficulty. Allah Almighty will give him strength to fast for a whole month.

- Is Ramadan connected with the beginning of the sending down of the Holy Quran?

Yes that's right. Ramadan is the month of the Quran. In this month, the verses of the Qur'an began to be sent down. As we know from the history of Islam, the prophet Muhammad was in a cave, in solitude, when he worshiped, prayed, then the archangel Jabrail appeared to him and read the first verses of the Koran to him. From that moment on, for 23 years, the prophet received revelations from Gabriel.

Therefore, a special thing in the month of Ramadan is just to read the Quran in full, to make the khatm of the Quran. I will add that in the month of Ramadan there is a separate, additional prayer - Tarawih. In some mosques, during Tarawih prayer, one juz of the Qur'an is read in full. Within a month, they thus read the entire holy book.

A time of peace and joy

- During the month of Ramadan a all wars, disputes and conflicts must be stopped, right?

Yes, Ramadan is such a joyful month, it is a big holiday for Muslims. This whole month is reserved only for the worship of Allah. Fasting in the holy month of Ramadan in Islam is not just a worship of Allah, but also a secret between the Almighty and His creation - man.

If, for example, during prayer we see how a person worships, makes certain bows to the ground, bows from the waist, and so on, then it is in the month when a person is fasting that this is not visible to outside observers. No man can determine this, because it is a secret between Allah and man.

During fasting, a person tries to completely surrender to the worship of the Almighty. During Ramadan, a lot of additional prayers are performed, reading the Koran is obligatory. As much time as possible should be spent in worship of Allah. Therefore, there simply cannot be any time left for wars or any other conflicts.

- But in, for example, hostilities continue even now - precisely in the month of Ramadan. How to treat it?

War has been a sin since the moment it all began. The blood of innocent people is shed there. Of course, shedding blood is a huge sin. It is simply indescribable and impossible if this continues in the month of Ramadan. increases many times over.

Punishment from Allah for murder does not exist here, on our earth, in earthly life. For him, the Almighty will punish already in the next, afterlife. As the Qur'an says, the one who kills one person is like the one who killed the whole of mankind. Therefore, such a sin will always be considered a terrible sin. And he has no forgiveness.

Interview prepared by Yuri Kondratiev for publication

Question:

Peace to you! I am not a Muslim myself, but I am interested in Islam. And I am interested in this question: why are Muslims not only allowed to eat, but also drink during fasting? A person can live without food for a long time, but it is very difficult to live without water - after all, our body consists of 2/3 of water. Is there any explanation for this prohibition in your religion?

Answer:

And peace to you. Thank you for your question.

The topic of fasting is of interest not only to many non-Muslims, but also to those Muslims who have recently converted to Islam, so they were not previously familiar with the rules of Islamic fasting.

I remember that I myself fasted for the first time in Ramadan, not yet being a Muslim. I had many Muslim students at school, and I wanted to express my solidarity with them in this way.

Then it was hard for me to believe that next year I myself would become a Muslim and would fast as a Muslim.

Your question, therefore, is very close to me - when I first started fasting, I found that during the daytime I was not so much hungry as much thirsty.

In the Qur'an we find the following verse:

“We sent down from the sky water in measure (i.e. rain) and soaked the earth with it, and, verily, it is in Our power to evaporate it.

With the help of water We have grown for you palm groves and vineyards, where many fruits that you eat grow for your needs. (23, 18-19).

Water is just one of the many gifts of the Creator that we take for granted in our lives. Just think how many times we use water in one day (we not only drink water, but we wash ourselves with it, wash our clothes, clean our house, cook food, wash dishes, use it in industry, etc.).

During Ramadan, we are ordered to give up some of the blessings that the Almighty has endowed us with (from food, drink and the love of our spouses) for a while - precisely so that we can better feel the full importance of these things.

If we are deprived of some things that are important to us for a while, we begin to appreciate them more when we finally regain them. All Muslims will confirm how tasty and valuable for them the first sip of water at sunset, when you can finally open the post. This water seems to us tastier than the most exquisite dishes.

In Ramadan, we also thank Allah for the rain - at other times of the year it can irritate us, but at this time, when we are deprived of water, we rejoice at the opportunity to refresh ourselves.

In times of difficulty, it is easier for us to sympathize with those people who are deprived of such an opportunity - to eat and drink when they want. How many people on Earth live in places where ordinary water is a rarity, and every sip of it is hard to come by.

All of the above, however, is only an introduction to the story of why Muslims fast. We don't do this to keep fit or experience some unusual spiritual states. We fast because our Lord - Allah Almighty ordered us to do this. Fasting is one of the so-called. "five pillars" of Islam, belief in which is required of all Muslims:

We read in the Quran:

“Whoever of you finds the month of Ramadan in which the Qur'an was sent down - the true guide for people, the clarification of the straight path and the distinction [between truth and falsehood], let him spend it by fasting. And if someone is sick or on a journey, then let him fast the same number of days in another month. Allah desires ease for you, not difficulty, desires that you complete the number of days [defined for fasting], and that you exalt Allah for guiding you to the true path. Perhaps you will thank Him" (2, 185).

Islam is a very wise and practical religion, it takes into account all possible life situations. If a person lives in his area, he must fast, but he is released from fasting if he is on the road or sick (as can be seen from the above verse).

The very command to fast also follows from the Qur'an:

“Oh, you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, just as it was prescribed for those who lived before you - perhaps you will become God-fearing. (2, 183).

Muslims fast because it is the command of Allah, they observe it in order to achieve the pleasure of their Lord.

In fact, fasting is a complete abstinence from basic human needs - food, drink and relationships between the sexes, during the daylight hours - from dawn to dusk.

Also - which is very important, fasting is not only physical abstinence, it is also moral abstinence from all bad habits(like smoking) and bad deeds - like quarrels, gossip, slander. At this time, it is important to abandon even bad thoughts - envy, hatred, ill will. From one abstinence will not be useful if a person at this time quarrels with someone or wishes evil to another. Our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said that such a person will not get anything from fasting, except that by the end of the day he will suffer from hunger and thirst.

So, as I tried to explain to you earlier, we refuse to fast even from water. Sometimes this is easy to do (for example, in the cool season), but if there is a summer heat in the yard, this is a very significant sacrifice. Especially towards the end of the day of fasting, when you start to feel tired and sleepy. But if a person knows that he is doing it for the sake of Allah, it is easier for him to endure hardships.

Moreover, what is such a small sacrifice worth compared to the suffering of people in many parts of the Earth - many of whom live in constant hunger and thirst, someone lost their homes and property - and possibly their loved ones - as a result of hostilities. If we think of all these people, it is much easier for us to sacrifice our comforts by giving up food and water for a little while.

When it is time to break the fast, Muslims gather with their families and friends to open the fast, thanking Allah for His gifts of food and water, which we do not notice during normal times of the year.

So fasting in Ramadan is an extremely useful and important thing when we learn to be grateful to Allah, try to become better and feel oneness with our brothers and sisters in faith.

Hope I was able to answer your question.

Why do Muslims fast?

In the fight against excess weight, most of us have experienced some form of abstinence from food. The abundance of diets today allows you to choose the one that you like: sugar-free, water, fruit ... But a complete rejection of food from dawn to dusk throughout the month can cause surprise and bewilderment. Especially when entire nations are fasting: young and old, poor and rich, adults and children. What else, besides a shortened working day, is the beauty of Ramadan? Isn't such a post too harsh? Maybe in Ramadan Muslims barely touch work, only fast and sleep during the day? Do they sleep at night and feast? What is the point of this month?

Fasting is prescribed in every religion

In Russian, fasting means voluntary abstinence from a certain type of food, or food in general, observed by believers. Fasting is practiced in almost all religions of the world. For example, in Hinduism. "Upavaasa" - fasting of pious Hindus on special occasions, as a sign of reverence for personal gods and repentance. This tradition is followed by most devout Hindus. On the days of fasting, they either do not eat anything, or make do with fruits, simple easy food… The Jews fast on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement, celebrated on the tenth day of the month of Tishri, completing ten days of repentance). On this day, it is forbidden to eat, drink, bathe, wear leather clothes and shoes, and have sexual intercourse. In addition, the ban on work, as on Shabbat, also applies to Yom Kippur. And Moses (peace be upon him), according to the Torah, also fasted:

“And Moses stayed there with the Lord forty days and forty nights, neither eating bread nor drinking water” (Exodus 34:28)

Catholics fast during Great Lent as a symbol of the forty-day fast of Jesus (peace be upon him). In the fourth century, the weekly fast preceded Passover or Holy Week. And already in the seventh century, this fast was extended to forty days. The New Testament mentions the fasting of Jesus (peace be upon him):

“…and having fasted forty days and forty nights, he became hungry at last” (Matthew 4:2; Luke 4:3)

This is what the Lord means when he says in the Quran:

“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, just as it was prescribed for your predecessors, so that you may be afraid” (Quran 2:283)

One of the best righteous deeds

Whereas in most religions fasting is observed as a cleansing from sins, in Islam this type of worship has a different goal - approaching God. The recognition of the Lord precedes righteousness, and therefore, fasting is of great importance in Islam. When Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked:

"Which business is the best?" He replied: “Fasting, for nothing compares to it.”(Al-Nasai)

Fasting in Islam has many levels. Even doing the same thing, Muslims fast in different ways. In other words, fasting is observed at different levels. Below we will discuss some of the main levels.

Different sides of the post

ritual level

A person at this level observes all the rules of fasting: abstains from food, drink and sexual intercourse for 29-30 days annually. A person at this level does not discern the spiritual side of fasting. This is the lowest level that must be present for fasting to be considered correct from an Islamic point of view. Of course, there is also a spiritual advantage at this level - for following the prescription of God. However, don't be content with just that. After all, fasting is much more than just observing traditions. And the ritual level cannot serve as a cleansing of the soul from sins.

"Physical" level

At this level, a person also seeks to receive physical benefits from fasting, i.e. get rid of excess weight, improve well-being. Naturally, he does not abuse food. The pangs of hunger and thirst make a person think about fasting, as it should be according to the Sunnah. Before dawn, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) took only light food, and interrupted the fast with a moderate amount of food. He carefully avoided overeating. As it came in the hadith:

“Never has a man filled a vessel worse than his own womb! A few pieces of food are enough for the son of Adam, thanks to which he will be able to maintain his strength, and if it is inevitable for him to eat more, let a third of his stomach be for eating, a third for drinking, and another third for ease of breathing ”(Ibn Maja).

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to break his fast with a few fresh or dried dates and a glass of water right before the start of the prayer. At this level, hunger and thirst during fasting generates a sense of compassion for the starving and dying of thirst and hunger in other parts of the world.

Medicinal properties of fasting

On a physical level, fasting affects neurotransmitter- a chemical transmitter of impulses between nerve cells, and contributes to the release endorphin- the hormone of happiness. It's like the effect of exercise. Doctors have also confirmed the beneficial effects of fasting on health. For example, during fasting, the human body uses up accumulated cholesterol, which reduces the risk of a heart attack. The difference between ritual level 1 and physical level 2 is that fasting 1 can eat a lot on suhoor(food taken before sunrise to maintain strength throughout the day) and iftar(breaking the fast), and not feel hunger and thirst all month of Ramadan. But fasting at level 2 cannot be considered complete either. Without the spiritual side, fasting can turn into a simple exhaustion of the body. As the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

« A person may get nothing from fasting but hunger and thirst.”(Ibn Maja).

Fasting levels: libidinal, emotional, psychological and spiritual.

libidinal level

At this level, a person learns to cope with the sexual instinct and arousal. Today, when the media uses a person's sexual desires as an opportunity to promote and sell certain products, the ability to control oneself is especially important. Fasting contributes not only to the physical but also to the mental reduction of arousal, since the fasting person is forced to avoid everything that can cause sexual desire. Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

"Youth! May those of you who can marry do it! Because it will save the eye from sin and help to remain pious. Whoever is unable to do this, let him fast. Because it will help him overcome his temptation. » (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

Those who are able to restrain themselves from permitted intimacy during fasting will not find it difficult to refrain from prohibited sexual intercourse outside of fasting.

Emotional level

Here a person learns to keep locked up the negative emotions languishing in the head and heart. As you know, one of the most destructive feelings is anger. Fasting helps to cope with it. As the hadith says:

“When one of you is fasting, let him avoid unseemly deeds and useless talk. And if someone starts offending him or arguing with him, let him say: “I will fast” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

So, at this level, the fasting person must refrain from all kinds of negative emotions: meaningless conversations and heated debates. Even if the fasting person is convinced that he is right, by leaving the dispute, he will only win. During fasting, it is easy to tame even jealousy and envy, since everyone follows the same precept and no one can stand out in any way.

Psychological level

The psychological level helps to cope with stinginess and greed. The Messenger of Allah reported:

“Allah needs neither hunger nor thirst for a person who does not restrain himself from lying even while fasting.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

In our age, when, it would seem, everything in the world is called upon to satisfy any needs and wishes of a person, and, moreover, immediately, the ability to delay receiving pleasure or reward is truly a great thing. This is where patience is required. Fasting is a great opportunity to learn patience.

According to psychologists, sometimes it is useful to abstract from the material goods of this world. Naturally, there is nothing wrong with enjoying a life of full prosperity, just the mundane should not become the main thing in our existence. And fasting just helps to get rid of such addictions. Food, for example, is a pleasure for many. For such people, abstaining from it, if not a feat, then a very big plus, which means a sense of contentment with their own restraint.

Spiritual Level

The highest and most important level. The level where a person feels a connection with God. To climb it, you need to renew your intention before each day of fasting. Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:

“If a person does not intend to fast before dawn, then his fast will not be counted” (Abu Dawud)

We renew our intention every day, which means that every day we re-set ourselves to observe the fast. Thus, fasting is not limited to external abstinence from food, but turns into something spiritual. It is at this level that fasting purifies the souls of people. Hadith:

“Whoever fasts in Ramadan sincerely and strives to receive a reward from God, his former sins will be forgiven”

« Between one and the other Ramadan - atonement for sins»

Sincere fasting brings you closer to the Lord. A special reward has been prepared for him. The Messenger of Allah reported about the gate in Paradise called Ryan, through which the fasting people will pass:

"In Ramadan, the gates of Paradise are open" (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

Fasting initially occurs only between a person and God, because no one can know for sure that he is fasting. The Prophet Muhammad reported the words of the Lord about this:

“Every act of the sons of Adam is for themselves, except for fasting. Fasting is only for Me, and only I will reward him for this. (Sahih Muslim)

The spiritual level, having united with the rest, changes a person from the inside: it revives his spirituality and transforms his essence. Such is the great reward for having a sincere conviction and having God in your heart.

On the first day of the new month, after the appearance of the new moon, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr. In the early morning they perform a full bath, put on their best clothes and rush to the common prayer. Then they visit relatives and friends. Also on this day, it is customary to give alms to the needy - Zakat al-Fitr (a certain amount of the most common food in the area).

Muslims fast not only on Ramadan. six days of the month shaual, every Monday and Thursday, the ninth and tenth or tenth and eleventh of the month of Muharram are the days on which it is also desirable to fast. Fasting on the tenth day of Muharram is shared by Muslims (Ashura) and Jews (Yom Kippur). To be different from the People of the Book, God commanded Muslims to fast two days in a row (not just that day).

Whereas fasting itself is considered one of the better ways worship in Islam, continuous fasting is forbidden in the same way as monasticism, celibacy or any other form of complete renunciation of the world. Fasting on the days of two holidays - Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha (the feast of sacrifice) - is strictly prohibited.

Dr. Bilal Philips