Ramadan and Islam: Introduction to Ramadan, the month of fasting for muslims?

Question

http://www.ramadan-islam.org/

Answer 1

The most prominent event of this month is the fasting practiced by most observant Muslims. The fasting during Ramadan has been so predominant in defining the month that some have been led to believe the name of this month, Ramadan, is the name of Islamic fasting, when in reality the Arabic term for fasting is sawm

Ṣawm (Arabic: صوم) is an Arabic word for fasting regulated by Islamic jurisprudence. Contrary to popular (non-Islamic) belief, its observance by Muslims is not confined to the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam in Sunni Islam.

Throughout the duration of the fast itself, Muslims will abstain from certain provisions that God has otherwise allowed; namely eating, drinking, and intercourse between husband and wife. This is in addition to the standard obligation already observed by Muslims of avoiding that which is not permissible under Qur'anic or Shari'ah law (e.g. ignorant and indecent speech, arguing and fighting, and lustful thoughts). Without observing this standard obligation, Sawm is rendered useless, and is seen simply as an act of starvation.

If one is sick, nursing or travelling, one is considered exempt from fasting. According to the Qur'an, for all other cases, not fasting is only permitted when the act is potentially dangerous to one's health - for example; those elderly who are too weak to fast for extended periods of time, diabetics, nursing and pregnant women.

Observing the fast is not permitted for menstruating women. However, when a woman's period has ceased, she must bathe and continue fasting. Any fasts broken/missed due to menstruation must be made up whenever she can before the next month of Ramadan (Muslim month of fasting). Women must fast at times when not menstruating, as God indicates that all religious duties are ordained for both men and women.

Answer 2

Is this a statement or promotion for some video? I don't see a question here. I have been in the middle east and have observed the fasting requirements of Ramadan. Not because I am Muslim....sorry I'm one of the BILLIONs of infidels...but out of respect for the country's culture. Also...to be seen eating or drinking...even water..is subject to arrest.

Answer 3

Muslims need to fast for a lot longer than a month, if you get what i mean.