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Every year, practising Muslims fast for the full lunar month, from dawn to night. This means having no food or beverages. If you are new to this tradition or want to learn more about it, an introduction to it follows below.

What is Ramadan?

This ninth month in the Muslim lunar calendar is a time when Muslims worldwide abstain from eating, drinking, anger, and immortal acts. Fasting during daylight hours is complemented by worshipping activities, such as praying and reading the Quran.

Often there are also community iftars, particularly for those who are in need or have little money. The fasting period is one that provides Muslims with the opportunity to strengthen their relationship with God and show compassion to those who are in need.

The Obligation to Fast

For adult followers of the faith, the fasting during the month of Ramadan is obligatory if you can safely do so. However, there are factors to consider during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as how the immune system weakens when going prolonged times without food or liquid.

Thus, it’s important to get enough nourishment during the hours when you are allowed to eat. Specifically, try to get plenty of carbohydrates for energy, as well as iron and vitamin C.

These nutrients are found naturally within a range of fruits and vegetables. Be sure, though, not to overeat as that can also potentially be harmful to the immune system. Perhaps the best strategy is to have a balanced approach to what you eat to keep your energy levels strong.

When the Ramadan Fast is Broken

What happens when a Muslim deliberately misses a fast or intentionally breaks the fast in Ramadan without having a valid reason? If they cannot fast continually at a later time for 60 consecutive days, then they must pay a kaffarah. This charitable donation is intended to atone for their breaking of the religious tradition of fasting for 60 days.

An example of a broken or invalid fast is intentionally eating food or drinking water during fasting hours. Other scenarios that would break or make the fast invalid include forcing yourself to vomit, having sexual intercourse during fasting, or intentionally hurting yourself, someone else, or an animal.

The money has traditionally gone toward helping to feed the hungry, including orphaned children and their families.

About Fidya

Another term to know about is fidya. This refers to when you cannot fast for the reason of helplessness. In this case, you must donate to help those in need as part of the Islamic tradition.

The compensation donation is one that individuals who cannot fast because of older age or illness make during this Holy Month. The contributions go toward helping those who live in poverty. Helping the hungry or the poor is a way to honour the Muslim custom.

Final Words on Ramadan and Atonement

By atoning for missing or breaking fasts during Ramadan, you can benefit the world’s poor population and satisfy your religious responsibilities simultaneously. In 2020, Ramadan is from April 23 to May 23. The month features fasting, prayer, and community within the 30 days, for Muslims around the world.