Fasting in Ramadan — called Ṣawm (صوم) — is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a form of worship that brings believers closer to Allah.
It’s designed to:
Develop Taqwa — spiritual mindfulness and awareness of Allah.
Teach self‑control and patience.
Encourage empathy for the poor and hungry.
Strengthen the sense of community through shared worship and charity.
“O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become righteous (attain taqwa).”
“(Fasting is) for a fixed number of days; but anyone of you who is ill or on a journey should fast the same number on other days. And for those who can fast with difficulty, there is a compensation — feeding a poor person.”
“The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance and the criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey, then let him fast the same number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship.”
“It has been made permissible for you during the nights of fasting to go to your wives. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them... Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct from the black thread of night. Then complete the fast until sunset.”