Niyyah (Intention)
- For the compulsory Fast of Ramadan to be accepted, the intention to fast must be made before Fajr each day.
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) was reported by Hafsa to have said: "Whoever does not intend to fast before Fajr will have no fast."
Note: To simply make up one's mind before sleeping that one will be fasting the next day is sufficient.
Suhur (Pre-Dawn Meal)
- The Fast begins with a light meal known as suhur, which is taken just before the break of dawn.
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) encouraged his followers to take this meal, even if it is only a drink of water.
Anas bin Malik said that Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: "Take suhur for surely there is Barakah (Blessing) in it."
Note: When the Adhan of Fajr is sounded, this signals the beginning of the fast and one should not begin to eat anything at this point.
Allah's Messenger (Peace be upon him) said: "If one of you hears the Adhan and an eating bowl remains in his hand, he should not put it down until he has had what he desires from it."
Iftar (Breaking Fast)
- It is highly recommended that the fast be broken as soon as Maghrib (setting of the sun) occurs.
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) said: "People will remain Happy and Prosperous as long as they hasten to break the fast."
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) used to break his fast with a few Dates or by drinking a little water.
VIRTUES OF FASTING
- The bad smell coming out of a fasting person’s mouth is better than any other good smell, to Allah.
- Even the fish of the water pray for those fasting.
- Heaven is made closer to them every day.
- The standing, sitting, working and even sleeping of a person fasting is considered worship.
- All the sins of a person fasting are forgiven and ranks are increased.
- On the last night of Ramadan, pardoning is done for those fasting.
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