Unit: Pillars of Islam · Lesson 4 of 50 · study cards + quiz
The fourth pillar
Fasting the month of Ramadan means abstaining from food, drink and marital relations from true dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), with the intention of worshipping Allah.
More than hunger
Fasting also trains the tongue and heart: the Prophet ﷺ taught that whoever does not give up false speech, Allah has no need of him giving up his food and drink. The goal is taqwa (2:183).
Who must fast?
Every adult, sane, able Muslim fasts Ramadan. Travellers, the sick, and women in certain states are excused and make up the days later; those permanently unable feed a poor person per day.
📝 Test yourself
When does the daily fast begin and end? Sunrise to noon · True dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib) · Noon to midnight · Isha to Fajr
According to the Quran (2:183), what is the goal of fasting? Losing weight · Attaining taqwa (God-consciousness) · Saving food · Staying awake
Who is excused from fasting and makes the days up later? Everyone who feels lazy · Travellers and the sick · Children only · No one is ever excused