Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Saum, Roza, Fast

Wishing everyone a very happy ramadan :)

Some points to share with the readers regarding Ramadan according to Quran. I will also try to address some questions usually related to Fasting.

2:185 - Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, ...

The importance of the month of Ramadan is not only due to the fact that muslims fast in it, Quran was also revealed in the month of Ramadan.

Q: Is it necessary to sight the moon for commencement of Ramadan?
A.
No it is not necessary. Quran no where states that moon should be sighted. God advises us that Sun and Moon are the calculating devices.

6:96 - He it is that cleaveth the day-break (from the dark): He makes the night for rest and tranquillity, and the sun and moon for the reckoning (of time): Such is the judgment and ordering of (Him), the Exalted in Power, the Omniscient.

Q: Was Fasting as religious duty given to Prophet Muhammad?
A: Prophet Muhammad was not given this religious duty. All of the religious duties have been given to Prophet Abraham (Link)

2:183 - O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint,-

Q: What are the timings of Fast?
A:

2:187 - ...
and eat and drink, until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread; then complete your fast Till the night appears; ...

Q: Who should Fast?
A: Everyone - who can that is.

2:184 - Specific days (are designated for fasting); if one is ill or traveling, an equal number of other days may be substituted. ...

Q: Is it true that for the relaxation of not Fasting while traveling, a distance of at least 40 km is required?
A: Quran no where states the kms or miles. It states that if you find it difficult to manage the Fast while traveling, you can substitute the number of Fasts for other days after Ramadan. Quran is not saying that you should not Fast if you are traveling. If you can manage it - good. If not, then substitute other days for it.

Q: I am a nursing mother, I find it difficult to Fast. What should I do?
A:
Follow verse 2:184. Anyone who finds it difficult to fast, for whatever reason, should do the following.

2:184 - ... and those who are not able to do it may effect a redemption by feeding a poor man;

Q: Is it possible that I don't Fast and feed a poor instead to compensate for it?
A:
Anyone who witnesses the month of Ramadan, should Fast unless he/ she finds it difficult to manage.

2:185 - ... therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein, ...
2:184 - ... and that you fast is better for you if you know.

Q: Can one copulate in Ramadan?
A:

2:187 - Permitted to you, on the night of the fasts, is sexual intercourse with your wives. They are your garments and ye are their garments ...

Any queries, please comment.

Related Posts:

1 - Travel Prayers - Salat e Qasr.
2- Eid - Is Animal Sacrifice Obligatory?
3- 5 Pillars of Islam.

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