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Introduction

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, obligatory for every accountable Muslim. For those whose faith is firmly established, this seemingly challenging act of worship feels attainable. It is an act that involves not only refraining from eating and drinking but also maintaining good behavior, speech, and increasing other acts of worship during this blessed month. Allah SWT states in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 183:

Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 183

“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.”

Ramadan is not only a time for obligatory fasting but also a month filled with blessings. During this month, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained, as mentioned in the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW:

“When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained.”

Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim ^[1]

Obligatory Nature and Conditions for Fasting

Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for:

1. Muslims.
2. Those who have reached puberty.
3. Individuals of sound mind (not crazy).
4. Those who are capable (not ill or traveling).

Intention (Niyyah) for Fasting

The intention for fasting is a required act to be made every night during Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad SAW said:

“Whoever does not intend to fast before dawn has no fast.”

Narrated by Abu Dawud ^[2]

Example of the intention:
“Nawaitu shauma ghodin ‘an adaa’i fardhi syahri Ramadhana haadzihi sanati lillahi ta’ala.”

(Translation: I intend to fast tomorrow to fulfill the obligation of Ramadan this year for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.)

Acts That Invalidate Fasting

Fasting involves not only refraining from food and drink but also requires self-discipline in avoiding acts that could invalidate the fast. The following are acts that invalidate fasting:

1. Eating and drinking intentionally.
2. Vomiting intentionally.
3. Engaging in sexual intercourse during the day.
4. Experiencing menstrual or postpartum bleeding.
5. Losing sanity.
6. Apostasy (leaving Islam).

Etiquettes of Fasting

To achieve a perfect fast, several etiquettes are encouraged:

1. Controlling emotions and avoiding idle talk.
2. Increasing recitation of the Quran.
3. Performing additional prayers, such as Tarawih.
4. Giving in charity.
5. Hastening to break the fast and delaying the pre-dawn meal (suhoor).

Merits of the Month of Ramadan

Ramadan carries unique merits, making it a precious time for Muslims to enhance their faith and piety:

1. Revelation of the Quran: “(The month of Ramadan is that) in which was revealed the Quran as guidance for mankind.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 185)
2. The Night of Decree (Lailatul Qadr): A night better than a thousand months.
3. Forgiveness of sins: The Prophet SAW said, “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, their past sins will be forgiven.” (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim)

Conclusion

Fasting in Ramadan offers a significant opportunity for every Muslim to draw closer to Allah, increase piety, and purify their soul. Let us strive to fulfill this obligation in the best manner and embrace the blessings it brings.

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Fundamentals of Believe | Pillars of Faith | Pillars of Islam | Al-Quran | History

Citations:

1. Al-Bukhari, M. I. (n.d.). Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 30, Hadith 9. Retrieved from https://sunnah.com/bukhari:1899
2. Abu Dawud. (n.d.). Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 13, Hadith 2454. Retrieved from https://sunnah.com/abudawud:2454