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Ramadan Rules

Ramadan Rules

For Muslims, the month of Ramadan is the holiest time of the year, as it is believed that the Angel Gabriel first revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during this sacred period. Understanding how does Ramadan work is key to appreciating why it is such an exceptional month for Muslims to observe. 

There are strict Ramadan rules that followers of Islam must abide by. If you are new to the Muslim community, lack the guidance of a local Imam, or are simply curious about how to do Ramadan, we will explain the basic rules and practices below. 

What is Ramadan?

To understand the rules for Ramadan, it is important to first know what Ramadan is. As mentioned above, it is believed that Ramadan marks the time when the Angel Gabriel first revealed the Qur’an and the words of Allah (SWT) to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). 

Over the years, additional revelations about Ramadan were shared with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), establishing the practice as part of the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm. The five pillars of Islam form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice, and observing Sawm is an essential aspect of fulfilling this obligation. 

In English, Sawm translates to fasting, which is performed during the holy month of Ramadan. By learning how does Ramadan work, Muslims can understand the deeper significance of fasting and the spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits it brings. Similarly, understanding how to do Ramadan involves observing its practices with sincerity, mindfulness, and dedication to strengthening one’s relationship with Allah (SWT). 

When is Ramadan Observed?

The first rule of Ramadan is when it is observed. The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle which means the dates of Ramadan fluctuate by around 10 days in the Gregorian calendar every year. Despite the fluctuation of the dates, Muslims always commence Ramadan from the sighting of the ninth new moon until the sighting of the tenth new moon of the lunar year. 

Initially, Ramadan fell during a hot month, but depending on where Muslims live in the world, it’s possible that it will fall during winter. 

What Can’t You Do During Ramadan?

As mentioned, Ramadan is observed to fulfil the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm. This involves adhering to the rules of Ramadan, which include refraining from eating or drinking during daylight hours throughout the Holy Month. While fasting is arguably the most significant aspect of Ramadan, there are several other Ramadan rules to follow, including abstaining from: 

  • Swearing 
  • Lying 
  • Fighting or arguing 
  • Sexual activity. 

According to the fasting rules of Ramadan, it is not permissible to consume food or drink during sunlight hours, including water. These Ramadan fasting rules are designed to encourage self-discipline, spiritual growth, and mindfulness. By abstaining from impure activities and thoughts, Muslims can cleanse their mind and soul, aligning their actions with the teachings of Islam. 

Understanding what can’t you do during Ramadan goes beyond the prohibition of eating or drinking. The rules about Ramadan also emphasise avoiding sinful behaviours, such as deceit or hostility. Adhering to these principles helps Muslims use the time to focus on empathy for those less fortunate, recite the Qur’an, and strengthen their connection with Allah (SWT). 

The Ramadan fasting rules time applies from dawn to sunset each day. This structured observance not only fosters discipline but also provides an opportunity for Muslims to purify their hearts and intentions. Reflecting on what are the rules of Ramadan enables participants to better embody the values of humility, patience, and generosity that this sacred month inspires. 

Who Observes Ramadan?

Whilst Ramadan is a core part of Islam, not everyone will be able to take part. As a result, there is a list of people who are exempt from the physical act of fasting. They are as follows: 

  • Elderly people 
  • People who are frail 
  • Those who are of poor health or who are on medication to treat a medical condition 
  • Pregnant women 
  • Women who are breastfeeding. 

In addition to the above categories, Ramadan fasting rules for menstruation mean that a woman must halt her fast should she menstruate during Ramadan, and she is considered as a person who is validly exempt from continuing the fast. Similarly, Ramadan travelling rules dictate that travelling individuals are permitted to pause their fast. 

What Happens if I Miss a Fast?

If you fit into one of the groups listed above, you are liable to pay Fidya. It is preferred that those who cannot fast during the month of Ramadan or who miss a day and/or days make up their fast at a later stage in the year. If it is not possible for a person to make up the fast during the year, they may pay their Fidya in the form of a charitable donation. 

The rate of Fidya changes year on year depending on the price of basic staple foods, but it is typically around £5 per day a fast is missed. The price of Fidya covers the cost of feeding one hungry person for one full day, and it should be paid in advance of the missed fast or at any other stage of Ramadan. 

If you do not fit into one of the above categories and you intentionally break fasting during Ramadan, the rules dictate that you must pay Kaffarah. The rate of Kaffarah is the value of feeding 60 people for each day missed. If the rate of Fidya is £5, a Muslim who intentionally misses a day of Sawm without good reason is expected to pay £300 or fast for 60 consecutive days. If you break your fast again during these 60 days, you must restart your Kaffarah from day one. 

Whether you are liable to pay Fidya or Kaffarah, you are forbidden to make up your missed days of fasting during Eid. You may make up the days at any point of the year, except at Eid. 

Ending the Fast

Once the new moon has been seen, marking the 10th month of the Islamic year, the month of Ramadan draws to a close. In order to end the month, Zakat Ramadan rules dictate that compulsory Zakat al-Fitrdonations must be made. When they have been made, the Eid al-Fitr prayers are said, the Eid celebrations begin, and Ramadan food rules come to a close. 

More Information

If you are querying “What are the rules of Ramadan?”, please contact us and we will gladly offer guidance and advice. 

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