1. Obligation and Conditions for Fasting
Fasting in Ramadan is farḍ (obligatory) for every Muslim who fulfills the following conditions:
Spiritual Note (Imam al-Ghazali):
“The outward conditions—being free from menstruation, having a sound body—are stepping stones; the true essence of fasting lies in purifying the heart from vices and awakening the soul to the remembrance of Allah.“
(Adapted from Ihyā’ ‘Ulūm ad-Dīn)
2. The Niyyah (Intention)
The intention (niyyah) is a fundamental requirement for fasting. Without it, abstaining from food and drink holds no spiritual value.
Prophetic Guidance:
“Actions are judged by intentions.“
(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim)
3. Suḥūr (Pre-Dawn Meal)
Suḥūr is a blessed meal eaten before Fajr to prepare for the day’s fast.
Timing: It is best to delay Suḥūr until the last portion of the night, just before Fajr.“Eat Suḥūr, for in Suḥūr there is a blessing.“(Bukhārī, Muslim)
Practical Advice: Avoid overeating, as moderation fosters spiritual discipline.
4. Iftār (Breaking the Fast)
Breaking the fast at sunset (Maghrib) is a moment of great reward.
“People will remain on the right path as long as they hasten to break the fast.“(Bukhārī, Muslim)
Method: Break the fast with dates or water, followed by Maghrib Ṣalāh.
“Allāhumma laka ṣumtu wa bika āmantu wa ʿalayka tawakkaltu wa ʿalā rizqika afṭartu.”
(“O Allah, for You I have fasted, in You I believe, upon You I rely, and with Your provision I break my fast.“
5. Essential Elements (Farā’iḍ) of Fasting
For a fast to be valid, the following must be fulfilled:
6. Actions That Invalidate the Fast
Invalidations fall into two categories:
Kaffārah: Fasting 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people if unable to fast.
7. Makrūh (Disliked) Acts While Fasting
The following acts are discouraged during fasting:
8. Special Circumstances
9. Types of Fasts
10. Qaḍā’ and Kaffārah
11. Fidyah (Compensation)
For those unable to fast due to chronic illness or old age:
Spiritual Insights
Three Levels of Fasting (Imam al-Ghazali):
Counsel of Shaykh ‘Abdul Qadir al-Jilani:
“Fast not only with your stomach but also with your eyes, tongue, and heart, so you may truly taste the sweetness of faith.“
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Fasting in Ramadan is a sacred obligation that combines physical discipline with spiritual growth. By adhering to the Hanafi fiqh rulings and embracing the spiritual teachings of scholars like Imam al-Ghazali and Shaykh ‘Abdul Qadir al-Jilani, we can transform our fasts into acts of profound devotion and self-purification.
May Allah accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and grant us the strength to fulfill both the outward and inward dimensions of this blessed act of worship. Āmīn.
References & Further Reading
Disclaimer: This guide is a simplified overview according to Sunni Hanafi Fiqh. For specific or complex scenarios, consult qualified scholars and medical professionals. May Allah guide us to perfect our worship in both its outward and inward dimensions.
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