Fasting in Ramadan – Misconceptions and Clarifications

“O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become righteous.” [Surah Baqarah, 2:183]

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar commemorating the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Millions of Muslims around the world practice fasting in Ramadan as it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, incorporating one of the core acts of worship that define a Muslim’s life. Each year, the month of Ramadan comes in all its glory as a reminder for us to reflect upon the essence of obedience. It is a blessed time to be conscious of Allah’s infinite bounty, and to seek His approval in all aspects of our lives. The Arabic word “Siyam” or fasting means abstaining, so through fasting and refraining from specific things during daylight hours, Muslims learn to submit to Allah’s commands and obey Him out of genuine love and supreme compliance. They hope to attain this through spiritual reflection, worship, increased acts of devotion and self-discipline. In this month, they offer supplication and yearn for absolution of their sins from Allah. through increased prayer and Quranic recitation, significantly through the five daily prayers, intense nightly worship “Qiyam ul Lay”’ or “Tahajjud” and engaging every night in the voluntary night prayer known as “Taraweeh”. However, the focus of this month is also to encompass varied acts of charitable benevolence and self-improvement. Fasting is not only about refraining from physical sustenance (eating and drinking) and physical intimacy from sunrise till sunset, but it also extends to avoiding negative, sinful or harmful thoughts, actions, and behaviors. While practicing fasting, Muslims learn to appreciate the blessings of food and drink, a simple yet valued gift from Allah, which many take for granted. Ramadan encourages us to be more grateful and spiritually aware, not just of what we consume, but of balancing the material and devotional aspects of what sustains us in life. Hence, Muslims steer away from the day-to-day trivialities and temptations that prove to be a source of hindrance and instead aim to develop a reverent mindfulness. Charity is also another beneficial act assiduously practiced during the month of Ramadan, as Muslims are encouraged to fulfill their yearly mandatory duty of donating to charities, known as zakah which is also one of the pillars of Islam. Charity can take many forms, from donating money to organizations, volunteering to feed the poor as well as offering to help the community in myriad ways. Indeed, Ramadan is a blessed month of heightened spirituality which permits all Muslims countless opportunities to get closer to their Creator and increase in imaan (faith). The aim is to approach Ramadan as an opportunity to replenish our sense of piety, develop patience and work towards a positive transformation by reconnecting our inner and outer selves with Allah in the true sense of the word. There are a few common myths and misconceptions that sometimes cloud the integral value of worship of this month. This confuses Muslims and non-Muslims alike, so it is important to pinpoint and address these issues and subsequently to clarify them, in order to recalibrate our focus and attention on the aspects that actually matter. Key Misconceptions and the Clarifications: Ramadan is about putting the body in ‘Starvation Mode’ Clarification: Medical experts confirm that fasting poses no risks for most healthy individuals and can even boost immunity when done properly. Studies suggest potential health benefits, as the body adapts, dispelling the starvation myth. Research shows intermittent fasting (akin to Ramadan fasts) aids weight loss, and controls blood pressure and cholesterol if implemented mindfully based on one’s health profile. Medically, fasting induces autophagy, which is a body’s cellular recycling system that helps the body to maintain balance by eliminating damaged or dysfunctional components of the body. It is also beneficial for other cellular processes, facilitating nutrient recycling, energy metabolism, and a better immune response. Not even water is allowed when fasting (even swallowing saliva breaks the fast) Clarification: Yes, no water is allowed during the fasting hours, but swallowing our saliva is unavoidable, as it is a natural, unconscious occurrence in all human beings throughout the day. Allah would not let a reflex action such as that be a cause for breaking our fast. However, kissing (if one cannot control his desire) with one’s spouse is prohibited. The Prophet (PBUH) advised,

“Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way.” (Bukhari)

ALL Muslims MUST fast Clarification: Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’an

“Fasting is prescribed for a number of days. But whoever of you is ill or on a journey, then (let them fast) an equal number of days (after Ramadan). For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person (for every day not fasted). But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew.’ [Surah Al Baqarah, 2:184]

Fasting in Ramadan is only obligatory upon the mentally and physically fit Muslim past adolescence. This means that most children do not have to fast, but they can choose to fast for a few days in Ramadan in order to prepare them for future fasting when they reach the age of maturity. Therefore, concessions and exemptions are for children who have not reached the age of puberty, the sick, the frail, elderly, pregnant or menstruating women or those experiencing post-partum bleeding, as well as breastfeeding women if it might put their health or their baby’s health at risk. This is because of the ruling that Muslims must be medically fit to fast. The elderly and those with chronic, long-term medical conditions do not have to fast if it adversely affects their health. It is advisable for those with diabetes, heart disease, or other conditions to heed medical advice before fasting long hours. Overall, the consensus from Islamic scholars is that if your fast will impact you negatively, harm, or weaken you, you are not mandated to fast. The key is for old and young alike to maintain optimal nutrition and hydration during nightly non-fasting times. Food choices should be wise so that when breaking the fast, wholesome foods that provide nutrients to sustain energy including complex carbs, protein, and vitamins should be included in the diet. People who are obliged to take medication in the day time, are not required to fast unless the medication cycle can be changed safely and be taken during the non-fasting hours. Fasting can often cause some people to overeat at iftar time, which can lead to health issues and weight gain. This is an issue that should be avoided. Additionally, those traveling long distances (a journey exceeding a certain number of days and distance) or those facing life-threatening risks can make up fasts and compensate for them, by feeding the poor per missed day instead. It can be demotivating and serve as a source of disappointment for those who are unable to partake in the cherished ritual of fasting in this month, but these individuals can still focus on maximizing other forms of worship (doing dhikr) and by practicing devotional acts tailored to their capabilities. After Ramadan, those who missed their fast for these valid reasons, and are able to do so, must make them up. If they can, they should fast the number of days they missed as soon as possible. If it’s hard for them to make up the fast, then they can pay fidya, which is a charitable form of compensation. The amount of fidya is equivalent to the cost of feeding one person two meals a day, or an equivalent amount of money. This donation is intended to provide food and sustenance for the poor and needy, and to make up for the missed days of fasting. If a Muslim misses a Ramadan fast intentionally without a valid excuse, they must first sincerely repent to Allah, then make up the missed fast day or qada as soon as possible, and for deliberate breaking, many scholars also state it requires a kaffarah (expiation), done by fasting 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people for each missed fast day. Accidentally eating and/or drinking breaks the fast Clarification: If a person genuinely forgets and either eats or drinks, the fast remains valid. However, intentional consumption of food or drink breaks the fast. As the Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Whoever forgets he is fasting and eats or drinks, let him complete his fast for it is Allah Who has fed him and given him to drink.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Taking medicines, vaccines, and shots negates the fast Clarification: Non-nutritive items like eye drops, inhalers, vaccines, or small blood tests generally do not break the fast. Taking non-nutritional injections does not invalidate the fast, but injections that provide nourishment, (such as glucose or serum or IV fluids), are considered to break the fast because they replace eating and drinking. Backbiting or bad deeds does not affect the fast Clarification: The Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Whoever does not give up forged speech (lying) and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting).” (Bukhari)

From the above hadith, we can deduce that negative actions greatly reduce the spiritual reward, as the goal of this holy month is spiritual growth. The point of fasting is to be virtuous, kind and to focus on drawing closer to Allah (SWT). So backbiting, talking ill of another person, or engaging in gossip will affect the validity and potentially lessen the value of the fast. But Allah (SWT) is the Most Merciful and All-Forgiving. If an individual slips up and feels remorseful for committing any backbiting or the like, he should seek forgiveness from Allah as soon as possible. Ali (RA) would often deliver a sermon, after Fajr and Asr prayers, reminding people that ‘fasting is …. not merely from food and drink, but rather from lying, falsehood, and vain talk.’ (al-Bayhaqi, al-Sunan al-Kubra, 7955) Fasting in Ramadan encompasses controlling all indulgences (physical and habitual) conducted in excess in daily life. Therefore, emphasis should be on controlling bad habits (lies, anger) and curbing habits like smoking, indulging in inappropriate speech, jealousy and having arguments. True fasting requires disciplining the self to gaining mastery over vices of the tongue during Ramadan and beyond. Desires centered on material pleasures must be reined in to uplift one’s morality and character alongside food abstinence. Outwardly restraining the body from food and drink serves as a reminder to inwardly cleanse negative thoughts and behaviors and keeping away from sin in order to please Allah. If one abstains from food and drink yet is rude, ill-mannered and unpleasant, at the core they have defeated the purpose of fasting. Brushing your teeth nullifies the Fast Clarification: Scholars worldwide agree that brushing your teeth does not break your fast. There is no harm in brushing your teeth during the fasting hours as long as you do not intentionally swallow any toothpaste or water. One must make sure to rinse the mouth thoroughly to avoid the possibility of imbibing water. Alternately, to prevent accidental drinking of water, many learned scholars recommend using a miswak (or siwak), a tooth-cleaning twig. A highly endorsed Sunnah practice, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself would often urge the Companions to use the miswak, (as mentioned in Sahih al-Bukhari). The miswak has also been recommended by the WHO (World Health Organization) for its oral hygiene benefits. Does Ramadan always fall on the same date every year?  Clarification: Since the Islamic calendar follows lunar cycles rather than the solar, Ramadan rotates across different seasons over time. Ramadan falls 11 days earlier each successive year on the Gregorian calendar. This means Ramadan occurs in different parts of the 33-year lunar cycle. Winter Ramadans will be relatively comfortable, with short fasting days for Muslims, whilst longer summer fasts with over 15+ hours of daylight can be exhausting for other Muslims depending on where they live. However, irrespective of climate or date, the duties and significance of Ramadan remain unchanged. Dates merely indicate when to commence fasting, as the key is to achieving spiritual enlightenment during this holy month. Exciting Trivia (to look forward to): There are likely to be two Ramadans in 2030! In Ramadan Muslims focus solely on Personal Piety   Clarification: Certainly, Muslims strive to boost their Islamic devotion through augmented worship and reflection during Ramadan. However, to imply this is an entirely personal quest is inaccurate, as communal participation is also integral. Muslims break daily fasts together in large groups at mosques and homes. Similarly, the extensive nightly Ramadan taraweeh prayers are conducted in congregation, with worshippers praying in unified rows following the imam’s recitations while performing the solemn rites of prayer. Congregational taraweeh prayers are especially encouraged as there are immense rewards in it. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

“Verily, whoever stands for prayer in Ramadan with the Imam until he is finished, it will be recorded as if he prayed the entire night.” (Tirmidhi)

Collectively donating food/meals for iftar (breaking the fast meal at sunset) allows entire communities to take responsibility for feeding the poor. Privileged Muslims also sponsor public iftars allowing less fortunate Muslims to open fasts with dignity. Hence, in many ways, Ramadan reinforces and promotes both personal piety and community well-being, so both forms of worship, individual and communal, help to develop a strong personal relationship with Allah. It is obligatory to complete the recitation of the Holy Quran in Ramadan Clarification: Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy on him, was asked, “Is it obligatory for the fasting person to complete the Qur’an in Ramadan?” He replied, ”Completing the Qur’an in Ramadan is not obligatory for the fasting person, but he should read the Qur’an a great deal in Ramadan, as that is the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, and he used to review it with Jibreel every Ramadan.”  (Majmoo’ Fataawa Ibn ‘Uthaymeen 20/516) As much as we are encouraged to increase our ibadah or worship in the month of Ramadan, there is no evidence suggesting the obligation towards completing the whole Quran in this month. Our religion does not wish us to overburden us with the unattainable, and when we plan our Ramadan routine, we should not overwhelm ourselves by making choices that are not sustainable. However, if it is manageable, we should aim for this goal, striving towards achieving it as the rewards are great. Hence, it is a greatly recommended act of worship rather than an obligatory requirement. Also, reading the Quran with focus, meaning and understanding is highly encouraged, not just in Ramadan but at all times. Aishah (RA) said about the Prophet’s (PBUH) practice in Ramadan, “When the last ten nights of Ramadan arrived, the Prophet (PBUH) would tighten his belt (i.e., work hard) and used to pray all the night, and used to keep his family awake for the prayers.” Hosting and/or attending Iftar parties is an Established practice in this month Clarification: For some of us, living in the spirit of Ramadan means making it special by having friends and family over for iftar. This should be practiced in moderation, as for both hosts and guests, such gatherings distract one and take away from the essence of spirituality of this month. This means not being able to focus on salah, dhikr, and duaa specifically in the crucial hours just before and after we break our fast. Therefore, it is important that we are mindful of the spirit of this blessed month and engaging in the remembrance of Allah is more likely to bring barakah or blessings into your lives, instead of excessive socializing where meaningless banter can become the norm. Spending the whole night in worship is Mandatory Clarification: During the sacred month of Ramadan, spending the night in worship is a recommended practice, known as Qiyam al-Layl. Also the Prophet (PBUH) emphasized searching for Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree/Night of Power) in the odd nights of the last ten, as this night yields rewards greater than a thousand months (over 83 years). Aishah (RA) noted that the Prophet (PBUH) would stay in itikaf (seclusion in the mosque) and encourage deep worship, seeking forgiveness and increased blessings, proving that Ramadan is a peak time for spiritual effort. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to stay up for Qiyam al-Layl during the last ten nights of Ramadan, and his Companions also followed this practice. However, some people forsake a whole night’s sleep in Ramadan in idle pursuit (viewing TV programs or scrolling through their phones) and catch up on their sleep during the day. Thus, they neglect the obligatory prayers, all the valued worship as well as their duties of their salaried jobs, when they indulge in this habit. It is important to note that the Prophet (PBUH) also emphasized the importance of getting enough sleep and rest, as he said,

“Verily, your body has a right over you.” (Sahih Bukhari)

Is it essential for everyone to pray Taraweeh? Clarification: During the Prophet’s (PBUH) time, taraweeh prayers were performed individually by some people and in small groups by others. Nonetheless, though the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) stressed on its performance as an act of gaining multiple rewards, he himself did not offer them in congregation out of fear that they may be deemed compulsory by his followers. It is generally agreed that the practice of praying taraweeh in congregation started during the caliphate of Umar ibn Khattab (RA). If possible, those able to do so should pray taraweeh in congregation in the mosque or alternatively, they can pray with friends/family at home. Conversely, it is vital to not miss the isha salah (or other obligatory prayers) as taraweeh are sunnah voluntary (nawafil) prayers. So being vigilant in attending taraweeh prayers and neglecting the obligatory prayers, is counterproductive to the value of worship in this month. It is vital to observe the ending time of Suhur (time of Imsak/to hold back or refrain from eating) Clarification: In fasting (especially during Ramadan), imsak is the precautionary time, usually 10-15 minutes before the actual dawn (Fajr), when Muslims are encouraged to stop eating and drinking to ensure they do not accidentally break their fast after the true start of dawn. People observe these timings sometimes and even follow Ramadan timetables where these fixed times are mentioned. However, according to scholars, there is no such thing as a fixed imsak, and the true imsak is to halt eating and drinking at the first light of dawn. Does vomiting break my fast? Clarification: If the fasting person vomits intentionally, his fast is considered invalid. However, if he is overwhelmed by the urge to vomit and does so involuntarily, his fast remains valid and he does not have to make up for it. Is eating ‘Suhur’ (the dawn meal) necessary? Clarification: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,

“Eat suhur for in it there is a blessing.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

So, eating Suhur is an important requisite as it fortifies a person for the fast that lies ahead. However, the food eaten at suhur should be simple and nourishing. Eating too much, or consuming food that is fried or too heavy to digest defeats the purpose as the one fasting will feel uncomfortable during the day and will be unable to focus on his daily activities nor will he be equipped to comfortably nurture his spirit. It is necessary to break fasts with dates? Clarification: It is encouraged to break the fast with fresh or dried dates as it is a Sunnah to do so. However, if no dates are available, the fast may be broken with a few sips of water. Despite the common misconception that Ramadan is solely about abstaining from food and drink, we realize it is concurrently a time to train mental strength, to implement and nourish our spirituality, forging an eventual constructive transformation. Simultaneously, fasting teaches empathy and awareness for those less fortunate who regularly endure hunger and thirst. Denying bodily urges from dawn to dusk and implementing righteousness trains us to develop a holistic approach and forge a deeper connection with Allah. It is a much-valued opportunity to boost our faith, as Allah has stated that the reward for carrying out good deeds during this month is multiplied, while the consequences of immoral acts are also more severe and heavier on the scale. The Prophet (PBUH) said,

“When the month of Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained up.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Therefore, the devil’s ability to tempt and mislead people is significantly reduced, thus making it symbolically easier for believers to resist sin. But it also stands to reason that we need to be increasingly careful and vigilant for any misdeeds, as we are wholly responsible for those committed in this month and we cannot attribute it to other sources. Ramadan is a beautiful opportunity gifted to us to be accountable for our deeds, (to especially avoid indulging in deeds that yield negative repercussions) and by this means, to showcase our love for Allah, thus fortifying our belief in Him. Hence, Muslims take advantage of this blessed month by striving to attain heightened God-consciousness and discipline over their senses, speech and conduct, achieving an amplified morality that will please our Creator as we aim to be better human beings in all spheres. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, Allah said,

“Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting. It is for Me and I shall reward him for it.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

The holy month emphasizes being conscious of Allah in every action throughout the day, not just mealtimes. This renewal of our moral and spiritual taqwa (God-consciousness), sharpens our moral compass and refocuses the body, mind and soul away from worldly distractions, thus serving a higher divine purpose beyond the month itself. Our ultimate goal, in its entirety, should be to transition towards ennoblement of character, and through physical discipline and the honing of spiritual muscles we should aim for an enhanced impact on our everyday life beyond Ramadan, into the future and ultimately into the Hereafter. The best incentive we can have is to pay heed to the following hadith of our Prophet (PBUH),

“In Paradise there is a gate called Al-Rayyan, through which those who will fast will enter on the Day of Resurrection…” (Bukhari and Muslim).

In conclusion, I would like to wish all Muslims worldwide a very Happy Ramadan, may Allah guide us in this blessed month and may all our heartfelt ibadah (worship) and sincere duas (supplications) be accepted by Allah Almighty! Ameen.