The Zonal Missioner of the Osun State branch of the NASFAT, Dr. K.K. Busari is an Associate Professor, Faculty of Arts, Department of Religion and African Culture of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State. His sermons and teachings of words of Islam are scarcely faulted because of his depth and continous research into the religion. In this interview with TheTabloid.net, he explains basic issues about Ramadan and fasting. Excerpts
When precisely was the first Ramadan fasting observed?
Fasting in Ramadan was made obligatory in Shaʿbān, 2 AH (624 CE), about 18 months after the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) to Madīnah. Evidence: Qur’an 2:183–185. The first full Ramadan observed by Muslims was in Ramadan of 2 AH.
Why was Ramadan fasting institutionalised?
Allah made it obligatory to develop taqwā (God-consciousness).
“O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you… so that you may attain taqwā.” (Qur’an 2:183) Other wisdoms include self-discipline, control of desires, empathy for the poor, spiritual purification, and training in obedience to Allah.
Who made it the fourth pillar of Islam?
This is based on the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W. ): “Islam is built upon five…” (Bukhari and Muslim), where fasting in Ramadan is mentioned as one of the five pillars. Allah obligated it, and the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) explained its status as a pillar.
What are the benefits derivable therefrom?
Spiritual: Forgiveness of sins and closeness to Allah. “Whoever fasts Ramadan with faith and hope of reward, his past sins are forgiven.” Moral: Control of anger and desires. Social: Compassion for the poor and needy. Physical: Rest for the digestive system (a secondary benefit).
What are the pains and who are exempted?
Pains include hunger, thirst, weakness, fatigue, headaches, and irritability, especially at the beginning. Those exempted (with conditions) include the sick, travellers, pregnant or breastfeeding women if harm is feared, elderly people unable to fast (who feed a poor person per day), and menstruating or post-natal women (who make up the fast later). Reference: Qur’an 2:184–185.
What are challenges Muslims face in complying with fasting rules in this new age?
Stressful jobs, extreme heat, school exams, social media distractions, and reduced sleep due to late-night routines.
How should Muslims cope or confront the challenges?
Plan sleep properly, reduce unnecessary outings and screen time, use Islamic concessions when genuinely needed, simplify Ramadan by focusing more on Qur’an and worship, and make du‘ā for strength.
How should Muslims prepare for sahūr and iftār?
Sahūr: Eat close to Fajr, choose slow-digesting foods, and drink enough water. “Take sahūr, for there is blessing in it.”
Iftār: Break the fast immediately at sunset, preferably with dates and water, make du‘ā before eating, and avoid overeating.
What are the things that vitiate one’s fasting?
Intentional eating or drinking, sexual intercourse during the day, intentional vomiting, menstruation or post-natal bleeding, and intentional ejaculation through stimulation. Forgetful eating or involuntary vomiting does not invalidate the fast.
Is sexual intercourse among couples a no-go area?
During fasting hours (Fajr to Maghrib), it is strictly forbidden, and requires making up the fast plus major expiation. At night (after Maghrib until Fajr), it is completely lawful. Reference: Qur’an 2:187.
Who decides the commencement and end of fasting?
This is determined by sighting the new moon of Ramadan and Shawwal. “Fast when you see it and break fast when you see it.” Today, recognized Islamic authorities and moon-sighting committees usually make this decision. If the moon is not sighted, Sha‘ban is completed as 30 days.
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