📖 20 min read
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَنِ الرَّحِيمِ
In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Especially Merciful.
Ramadan (رَمَضَان) is the ninth month of the Hijri (lunar) calendar and one of the most sacred times of the year for Muslims around the world. Throughout this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset as an act of worship that constitutes the fourth pillar of Islam. But Ramadan is much more than simply abstaining from food and drink — it is a school of piety, patience, self-control and drawing closer to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and in the hope of Allah’s reward will have their past sins forgiven.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 38, and Muslim, no. 760, from Abu Hurayra — may Allah be pleased with him). To understand how fasting fits into the foundations of Islam, see our article on the 5 pillars of Islam.
Whether you are a Muslim preparing for Ramadan, a new convert seeking to understand this obligation, or simply curious about the meaning of this sacred month, this guide explains everything you need to know: fasting rules, exemptions, spiritual benefits, the Night of Decree, Tarawih prayers and practical advice for making the most of this blessed month.
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ
“O you who believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain piety.”
— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183)
📋 Table of contents
- What is Ramadan?
- The obligation to fast in the Quran and Sunnah
- Fasting rules
- What breaks the fast
- Exemptions from fasting
- The benefits and virtues of Ramadan
- Tarawih prayers
- The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr)
- Zakat al-Fitr
- A practical Ramadan guide
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Sources and references
1. What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri calendar (the Islamic lunar calendar). This month holds a unique place in Islam because it was during this month that the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through the Angel Jibril (Gabriel). Allah says: “The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was sent down as guidance for people, with clear proofs of guidance and the criterion between right and wrong. So whoever among you is present during this month must fast!” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185).
The word “Ramadan” comes from the Arabic root “ramida” or “ar-ramad”, meaning “intense heat” or “burning”. Scholars explain that this name reflects how fasting burns away sins, just as heat scorches the ground. It is also the month in which believers’ hearts are kindled with piety and the desire to draw closer to Allah.
Because the Hijri calendar is lunar, Ramadan shifts by approximately 10 to 11 days each year relative to the solar (Gregorian) calendar. As a result, Ramadan falls in different seasons over the years — sometimes in summer, with long, hot days, and sometimes in winter, with shorter, cooler days.
2. The obligation to fast in the Quran and Sunnah
A pillar of Islam
Ramadan fasting is the fourth pillar of Islam. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Islam is built on five pillars: bearing witness that none is worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger, establishing prayer, paying Zakat, fasting during Ramadan and making the pilgrimage to the Sacred House for those who are able.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 8, and Muslim, no. 16).
The Quranic command
Ramadan fasting was prescribed in the second year after the Hijrah (the Prophet’s ﷺ migration from Mecca to Medina). Allah made it obligatory in a verse that highlights both the obligation and the wisdom behind it: “O you who believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain piety (taqwa).” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183). The word “kutiba” (كُتِبَ) — “has been prescribed / has been decreed” — indicates a firm obligation, rather than a mere recommendation.
The beginning and end of Ramadan
Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon (hilal) of Ramadan and ends with the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Fast when you see the crescent moon (of Ramadan), and end the fast when you see the crescent moon (of Shawwal). If the sky is cloudy, complete thirty days of Sha‘ban.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1909, and Muslim, no. 1081, from Ibn ‘Umar).
3. Fasting rules
Who is required to fast?
Ramadan fasting is obligatory for anyone who meets these conditions:
1. Being Muslim: Fasting is an act of worship prescribed for Muslims.
2. Having reached puberty: Children who have not reached puberty are not required to fast, but it is recommended to introduce them to it gradually. The Prophet ﷺ recommended teaching children to pray from the age of 7 (Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 495) — scholars apply the same principle to fasting.
3. Being of sound mind: A person with severe mental disorders is exempt.
4. Being in good health: An ill person whose condition could worsen is temporarily exempt.
5. Being a resident (not travelling): Travellers are permitted not to fast and to make up the days later.
The intention (Niyyah)
The intention to fast must be made before dawn (before Fajr) for each day of Ramadan. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever has not made the intention to fast before Fajr has no fast.” (Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 2454, and An-Nasa’i, no. 2331, authenticated by Al-Albani). The intention is made in the heart — there is no need to say a formula aloud. Simply getting up for Suhur (the meal before dawn) with the intention of fasting is sufficient.
Suhur (the meal before dawn)
Suhur is the meal eaten before dawn, before the fast begins. It is strongly recommended (Sunnah), rather than obligatory. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Eat Suhur, for there is a blessing (baraka) in Suhur.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1923, and Muslim, no. 1095). It is recommended to delay Suhur as much as possible, until shortly before the call to Fajr prayer. Zayd ibn Thabit (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “We ate Suhur with the Prophet ﷺ, then he got up for prayer.” He was asked: “How much time was there between the two?” He replied: “The time it takes to recite fifty verses.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1921, and Muslim, no. 1097).
Iftar (breaking the fast)
Iftar is the moment of breaking the fast at sunset (at the time of Maghrib prayer). It is recommended to break the fast promptly as soon as the sun sets. The Prophet ﷺ said: “People will continue to be upon goodness as long as they hasten to break the fast.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1957, and Muslim, no. 1098). The Sunnah is to break the fast with fresh dates (rutab); if these are unavailable, with dried dates (tamr); and if those are unavailable, with water. The Prophet ﷺ would break his fast with fresh dates before praying. If he could not find any, he would use dried dates; if those were also unavailable, he would drink a few sips of water. (Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 2356, and At-Tirmidhi, no. 696, authenticated by Al-Albani).
4. What breaks the fast
Things that invalidate the fast:
1. Deliberately eating or drinking: Deliberately consuming any food or drink invalidates the fast. However, if someone eats or drinks forgetfully, the fast remains valid. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever forgets that they are fasting and eats or drinks should continue their fast, for it is Allah who has given them food and drink.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1933, and Muslim, no. 1155).
2. Sexual intercourse: Marital relations during fasting hours (from dawn until sunset) invalidate the fast and require expiation (Kaffarah) — fasting for 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people. (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1936, and Muslim, no. 1111).
3. Deliberately inducing vomiting: Intentionally making yourself vomit invalidates the fast. However, if vomiting is involuntary, the fast remains valid. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever is overcome by vomiting does not have to make up the fast, but whoever vomits deliberately must make it up.” (Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 2380, and At-Tirmidhi, no. 720, authenticated by Al-Albani).
4. Menstruation and postnatal bleeding: The fast is automatically broken by the onset of menstruation or postnatal bleeding, even if this happens just before sunset. Missed days must be made up after Ramadan.
5. The intention to abandon the fast: If a person firmly decides to break their fast, even without eating or drinking, the fast is invalidated according to the majority of scholars, because intention is a condition of validity.
Note: scholars differ on certain actions, such as using an asthma inhaler, receiving non-nutritive injections, having blood drawn or undergoing hijama (cupping). The most cautious approach is to consult a qualified scholar about your personal circumstances.
5. Exemptions from fasting
Allah says: “Allah intends ease for you; He does not intend hardship for you.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185). Islam is a religion of ease and mercy. Some people are exempt from fasting or may postpone it:
| Category | Ruling | Subsequent obligation |
|---|---|---|
| Travellers | May choose whether to fast while travelling | Make up the missed days |
| People with a temporary illness | May postpone fasting if it worsens their illness or delays recovery | Make up the missed days after recovery |
| Pregnant or breastfeeding women | May postpone fasting if they fear for their health or their child’s health | Make up the missed days (+ feed one poor person per day according to some scholars) |
| Women experiencing menstruation or postnatal bleeding | Must not fast — the fast is invalid | Make up the missed days |
| Elderly or chronically ill people | Permanently exempt if unable to fast | Feed one poor person per day (Fidya) |
The evidence for Fidya (compensation through feeding) is found in the Quran: “But for those who can only bear it with great difficulty, there is compensation: feeding a poor person.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:184).
6. The benefits and virtues of Ramadan
Forgiveness of sins
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and in the hope of Allah’s reward will have their past sins forgiven.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 38, and Muslim, no. 760). He also said: “Whoever prays during the nights of Ramadan with faith and in the hope of reward will have their past sins forgiven.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 37, and Muslim, no. 759).
A limitless reward
Fasting is the only act of worship about which Allah has said that He Himself rewards it without limit. In a hadith Qudsi, the Prophet ﷺ reports that Allah said: “Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting: it is for Me, and I reward it. Fasting is a shield. When one of you is fasting, let them neither use obscene speech nor quarrel. If someone insults or provokes them, let them say: ‘I am fasting.’ By the One in whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, the breath of a fasting person is more pleasing to Allah than the fragrance of musk. The fasting person has two joys: joy when breaking the fast, and joy when meeting their Lord.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1904, and Muslim, no. 1151).
The gates of Paradise open
The Prophet ﷺ said: “When Ramadan arrives, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1899, and Muslim, no. 1079). This hadith shows that the spiritual atmosphere changes dramatically during Ramadan — temptations are reduced and opportunities to do good are multiplied.
The gate of Ar-Rayyan
The Prophet ﷺ said: “In Paradise, there is a gate called Ar-Rayyan through which those who fast will enter on the Day of Resurrection, and no one else will enter through it. It will be said: ‘Where are those who fasted?’ They will then rise, and no one else will enter through it. Once they have entered, it will be closed and no one else will enter through it.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1896, and Muslim, no. 1152).
Expiation of sins between one Ramadan and the next
The Prophet ﷺ said: “The five daily prayers, one Friday to the next, and one Ramadan to the next are expiations for the sins committed between them, provided that major sins are avoided.” (Narrated by Muslim, no. 233).
7. Tarawih prayers
The Tarawih (تَرَاوِيح) prayers are voluntary prayers performed every night of Ramadan after Isha prayer. The Prophet ﷺ led them in congregation for a few nights, then stopped out of fear that they would become obligatory for his community. (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 2012, and Muslim, no. 761). It was ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) who brought people together again behind a single imam for Tarawih, saying: “What an excellent innovation this is!” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 2010).
Number of rak‘at: Scholars differ between 8 rak‘at (the view of the majority of contemporary scholars, based on the hadith of ‘Aisha narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1147, and Muslim, no. 738, which describes 11 rak‘at including Witr) and 20 rak‘at (the view of the Hanafi, Shafi‘i and Hanbali schools, based on the practice of ‘Umar and the Companions). Both views are valid and supported by authentic evidence.
Time: After Isha prayer until dawn (before Fajr).
Alone or in congregation: Both are permitted, but praying in congregation at the mosque is preferable during Ramadan.
Virtue: The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever prays with the imam until he finishes will have the reward of praying the entire night recorded for them.” (Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 1375, At-Tirmidhi, no. 806, An-Nasa’i, no. 1605, and Ibn Majah, no. 1327, authenticated by Al-Albani).
8. The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr)
The Night of Decree (لَيْلَة القَدْر — Laylat al-Qadr) is the most important night of the year in Islam. Allah devoted an entire surah to it:
إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ وَمَا أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ
“Indeed, We sent it down during the Night of Decree. And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”
— Surah Al-Qadr (97:1–3)
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever prays on the Night of Decree with faith and in the hope of reward will have their past sins forgiven.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 35, and Muslim, no. 760). The Night of Decree falls within the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially the odd-numbered nights (the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th night). The Prophet ﷺ said: “Seek the Night of Decree in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 2017).
The recommended supplication for this night is the one the Prophet ﷺ taught to ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her): “O Allah, You are the One who pardons, You love to pardon, so pardon me.” (اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ العَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي — Allahumma innaka ‘Afuwwun tuhibbu-l-‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni.) (Narrated by At-Tirmidhi, no. 3513, authenticated by Al-Albani).
9. Zakat al-Fitr
Zakat al-Fitr (زَكَاة الفِطْر) is an obligatory charity that every Muslim must pay before the Eid al-Fitr prayer (the celebration marking the end of Ramadan). It has two purposes: purifying the fasting person from any idle or obscene speech they may have used during Ramadan, and feeding the poor on Eid so that they too can celebrate.
The Prophet ﷺ prescribed Zakat al-Fitr: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ made Zakat al-Fitr obligatory: one Sa‘ of dates or one Sa‘ of barley, for every slave and free person, male and female, young and old among the Muslims. He ordered that it be paid before people went out for the (Eid) prayer.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1503, and Muslim, no. 984, from Ibn ‘Umar).
Amount: One Sa‘ (approximately 2.5 to 3 kg) of the country’s staple food (rice, wheat, barley, dates, etc.). Some Hanafi scholars permit giving its monetary equivalent.
Who must pay it: Every Muslim, including children and babies — the head of the household pays it for each household member.
When: No later than before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. It is permitted to give it one or two days before Eid. If given after the prayer, it no longer counts as Zakat al-Fitr but as ordinary Sadaqah. (Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 1609, authenticated by Al-Albani).
To whom: To the poor and the needy.
To learn more about the difference between Zakat al-Fitr and Zakat al-Maal (the annual charity on wealth), see our complete guide to Zakat.
10. A practical Ramadan guide
Before Ramadan
• Make up missed fasting days: If you have days from the previous Ramadan to make up, try to do so before the next Ramadan arrives.
• Prepare spiritually: Increase your acts of worship (voluntary prayers, reading the Quran and supplications) during Sha‘ban, the month preceding Ramadan.
• Prepare physically: Help your body adjust by fasting a few days during Sha‘ban (Mondays and Thursdays, or the 13th, 14th and 15th days of the month).
• Set your goals: How many times do you want to read the entire Quran? Which bad habits do you want to give up? Which good habits do you want to develop?
During Ramadan — A typical day
🌙 Before dawn — Suhur: Get up for the meal before dawn. Eat nutritious, hydrating foods (dates, water, fruit and grains). Make the intention to fast. Pray Fajr on time.
☀️ Daytime — Fasting: Abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse. Read the Quran (the Prophet ﷺ would review the Quran with Jibril every Ramadan — Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 6, and Muslim, no. 2308). Make supplications frequently. Avoid pointless speech and arguments.
🌅 Sunset — Iftar: Break the fast with dates and water. Recite the supplication for breaking the fast: “The thirst has gone, the veins have been moistened and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.” (ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ العُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ — Narrated by Abu Dawud, no. 2357, authenticated by Al-Albani). Pray Maghrib.
🕌 Night — Tarawih: Perform Tarawih prayers (at the mosque or at home). Continue reading the Quran. Make supplications and engage in dhikr. Go to bed early so you can get up for Suhur.
The last ten nights
The last ten nights of Ramadan are the most precious. The Prophet ﷺ would intensify his efforts during these nights. ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “When the last ten nights arrived, the Prophet ﷺ would tighten his izār (refrain from intimacy with his wives), stay awake at night and wake his family.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 2024, and Muslim, no. 1174). These nights include the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr). Some Muslims practiseI’tikaf (a spiritual retreat in the mosque) during these last ten days, following the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ. (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 2025, and Muslim, no. 1172).
❓ Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I eat or drink forgetfully while fasting?
The fast remains valid. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever forgets that they are fasting and eats or drinks should continue their fast, for it is Allah who has given them food and drink.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1933, and Muslim, no. 1155). You do not have to make up anything — this is a mercy from Allah.
Can I brush my teeth or use a Siwak while fasting?
Yes, using a Siwak (a twig from the Arak tree) is permitted while fasting according to the majority of scholars. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged its use at all times. For toothpaste, scholars recommend caution — it is preferable to use it before Fajr to avoid swallowing any unintentionally. However, if you use it during the day and take care not to swallow anything, the fast remains valid.
Does a child have to fast?
Fasting is not obligatory for a child who has not reached puberty. However, it is recommended to introduce children to fasting gradually, as the Companions did with their children (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, no. 1960, and Muslim, no. 1136). You can begin with a few hours, then gradually increase the duration until the child can fast for the whole day.
Can I swallow my saliva while fasting?
Yes, swallowing saliva is natural and does not break the fast. Scholars are unanimous on this point. However, deliberately swallowing mucus or nasal secretions is discouraged according to some scholars.
What happens if I do not make up missed days before the next Ramadan?
If you had a valid excuse (illness, breastfeeding, etc.), you must make up the missed days as soon as possible after that excuse no longer applies. If you delayed making them up without a valid excuse until the following Ramadan, you must still make up those days and also feed one poor person for each day delayed, according to the majority of scholars (Maliki, Shafi‘i and Hanbali). The Hanafi school requires only making up the fasts, without additional compensation through feeding.
Is fasting obligatory in countries where days are very long (18+ hours)?
Contemporary scholars have expressed several views on this question. The majority recommend following local times as long as fasting remains bearable. In extreme cases (days of 20+ hours or countries where the sun does not set), some scholars permit following the times of Mecca or the nearest Muslim country. Consult a qualified scholar about your specific circumstances.
Sources and references
Quran:
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183) — The prescription of fasting
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184) — Fidya (compensation through feeding)
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185) — Ramadan and the revelation of the Quran
Surah Al-Qadr (97:1–5) — The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months
Hadiths:
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 8) and Muslim (no. 16) — Islam is built on five pillars (from Ibn ‘Umar)
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 35) and Muslim (no. 760) — Forgiveness for praying on the Night of Decree
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 37) and Muslim (no. 759) — Forgiveness for praying during the nights of Ramadan
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 38) and Muslim (no. 760) — Forgiveness for fasting during Ramadan with faith
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1896) and Muslim (no. 1152) — The gate of Ar-Rayyan in Paradise
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1899) and Muslim (no. 1079) — The gates of Paradise open and the devils are chained
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1904) and Muslim (no. 1151) — Hadith Qudsi: fasting is for Me (from Abu Hurayra)
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1909) and Muslim (no. 1081) — Fast when you see the crescent moon (from Ibn ‘Umar)
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1921) and Muslim (no. 1097) — The interval between Suhur and Fajr (from Zayd ibn Thabit)
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1923) and Muslim (no. 1095) — The blessing of Suhur
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1933) and Muslim (no. 1155) — Eating or drinking forgetfully does not break the fast
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1936) and Muslim (no. 1111) — Expiation for sexual intercourse while fasting
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1957) and Muslim (no. 1098) — Breaking the fast promptly
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 1503) and Muslim (no. 984) — The prescription of Zakat al-Fitr (from Ibn ‘Umar)
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 2010) — ‘Umar and Tarawih prayers in congregation
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 2012) and Muslim (no. 761) — The Prophet ﷺ and Tarawih
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 2017) — Seeking the Night of Decree on odd-numbered nights
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 2024) and Muslim (no. 1174) — The last ten nights of Ramadan (from ‘Aisha)
Sahih Al-Bukhari (no. 2025) and Muslim (no. 1172) — The Prophet’s ﷺ I’tikaf
Sahih Muslim (no. 233) — Ramadan as expiation between one Ramadan and the next
Sunan Abu Dawud (no. 2356) and At-Tirmidhi (no. 696) — Breaking the fast with dates (authenticated by Al-Albani)
Sunan Abu Dawud (no. 2357) — The supplication for breaking the fast (authenticated by Al-Albani)
Sunan Abu Dawud (no. 2380) and At-Tirmidhi (no. 720) — Deliberate vomiting invalidates the fast (authenticated by Al-Albani)
Sunan Abu Dawud (no. 2454) and An-Nasa’i (no. 2331) — Making the intention before Fajr (authenticated by Al-Albani)
Sunan At-Tirmidhi (no. 3513) — The supplication for the Night of Decree taught to ‘Aisha (authenticated by Al-Albani)
Sunan Abu Dawud (no. 1375), At-Tirmidhi (no. 806), An-Nasa’i (no. 1605), Ibn Majah (no. 1327) — The reward for praying with the imam (authenticated by Al-Albani)
Further references:
An-Nawawi, Sharh Sahih Muslim — Commentary on the hadiths about fasting
Ibn Qudama, Al-Mughni — Comparative jurisprudence of fasting
Ibn al-Qayyim, Zad al-Ma’ad — The guidance of the Prophet ﷺ during Ramadan
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