How to Fast During the Holy Month of Ramadan
Islamic faithfuls fast (sawm) -- they abstain from taking anything into their body cavities -- during the Holy month of Ramadan, the third of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims around the world pray, perform acts of charity and restrain from sexual contact from dawn to dusk beginning the day before the first day of Ramadan. Although Ramadan falls on different days on the Western Gregorian calendar, the holy days fall on the same days according to the lunar Islamic calendar. Muslims focus on their surrender to Allah's will and on self-control as Ramadan progresses.
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Instructions
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Wait for a competent judge to see the first sign of the crescent moon at dusk of the last day of the month preceding Ramadan, Shaban. Begin fasting for 30 days whether or not you see the new moon on the western horizon.
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Make a formal intention to fast from dawn to dusk on the following day. Perform the mental and spiritual commitment to fast each night during the fasting period.
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Eat Suhoor -- a light meal before sunrise -- before beginning each day of fasting during Ramadan. Consume your predawn meal no later than 5 to 10 minutes before dawn.
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Consume water and dates as a snack to break each day's fast and to ease your stomach toward the evening meal.
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Consume foods, including but not limited to, chicken, lamb, whole grains, dairy and vegetables at dinner. Eat in moderation.
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Read the complete Qur'an, which is in 30 chapters, over the course of the month of Ramadan. Observe Qadr, the night of Power, by worshiping Allah, reciting the Qur'an and requesting forgiveness of sins, advises the website Islam 101.
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Tips & Warnings
Qada is the term for making up for lapses, such as intentionally eating or drinking without a penalty, called Kaffarah. However, if a Muslim has sexual intercourse during Ramadan, he must fast for 60 more days.
Only a male Muslim can judge that he has seen the crescent moon.
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