Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is observed by Muslims worldwide. The rules for fasting (known as Sawm in Arabic) during Ramadan are as follows:
1. Intention (Niyyah)

• The intention to fast must be made each day before dawn (Fajr). This intention does not have to be spoken but should be a firm decision in the heart.

2. Duration

• The fast begins at dawn (Fajr) and ends at sunset (Maghrib). During this period, Muslims must abstain from specific activities.

3. Abstaining from Food and Drink

• No eating or drinking: This includes all food and beverages, as well as chewing gum, from dawn until sunset.

4. Abstaining from Sexual Activity

• No sexual relations: Engaging in sexual activity is prohibited during the fasting hours.

5. Avoiding Sinful Behavior

• No sinful acts: Muslims should avoid lying, gossiping, anger, or any behavior considered sinful. The focus should be on spiritual growth, charity, and good deeds.

6. Breaking the Fast

• Breaking the fast at sunset (Iftar): The fast is typically broken with dates and water, followed by a meal. The fast is concluded with the Maghrib prayer.

7. Pre-dawn Meal (Suhoor)

• Suhoor: It is recommended to have a pre-dawn meal, known as Suhoor, before the fast begins each day.

8. Who Must Fast

• Muslim adults: All adult Muslims are required to fast unless exempted.
• Exemptions: Those who are exempt include children (pre-puberty), the elderly, those who are ill, travelers, pregnant or nursing women, and women who are menstruating. Those who miss fasts due to illness or travel are expected to make up the missed days later.

9. Breaking the Fast Early

• Unintentional breaking of the fast: If a person forgets they are fasting and eats or drinks, the fast remains valid, but they should resume fasting immediately upon realizing.
• Intentional breaking of the fast: If someone intentionally breaks their fast without a valid reason, they must make up the fast later and may need to perform a form of expiation (kaffarah), such as fasting for 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people.

10. Spiritual Focus

• Increased prayer and recitation of the Qur’an: Ramadan is a time for increased worship, reflection, and reading of the Qur’an.

Observing these rules is seen as a way to develop self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual growth.