Fasting (SAUM)

Every year during the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar (Ramadan), all Muslims must fast from dawn until sundown, abstaining from food, drink and sexual relations. Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey and women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing, are permitted to break the fast and and make up an equal number of days later in the year if they are healthy and able. Children begin to fast (and to observe prayers) from puberty although many start earlier. The end of Ramadan is marked by the great Eid al Fitr celebration. Although fasting is beneficial to health, it is mainly a method of self-purification and self-restraint. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, ever for a short time, a fasting person focuses on his or her purpose in life by constantly worshipping and being aware of the presence of the Creator, Allah.

"The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for
mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and
wrong). And whoever sights (the moon), let him fast the month"
(Quran,
The Heifer 2:185)

*As the Sun begins to set it creates a spectacular display. Muslims must break their fast immediately after sundown.

* Following the practice (Sunnah) of Propher Muhammad (p), Muslims break the fast with an odd number of dates. Dates have been a staple food of the Middle East for thousands of years. It is believed to have originated around the Persian Gulf and has been cultivated in ancient times from Mesopotamia to prehistoric Egypt, possibly as early as 6000 BCE.

* The Islamic calendar is based on lunar months which means that, celebrations, festivals and important occasions such as Ramadan do not remin fixed in a particular season, but travel through the seasons.