Roza or Sawm “It is the third of the Five Pillars of Islam”
Sawm is an Arabic term that refers to the practice of fasting during the month of Ramadan in the Islamic faith. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and is observed by Muslims all over the world as a way of physically and spiritually purifying oneself.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical pleasures from sunrise to sunset. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar. The fast is also a time for increased prayer and devotion to God.
The exact rules and requirements for observing sawm during Ramadan can vary slightly depending on the individual and the tradition they follow. However, the basic principles of sawm are the same across all Muslim communities.
Muslims observe sawm (fasting) during the month of Ramadan as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Fasting during Ramadan is a time of physical and spiritual purification and is a way of demonstrating devotion to God.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical pleasures from sunrise to sunset. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar.
In addition to abstaining from food and drink, Muslims also try to increase their prayer and devotion to God during Ramadan. Many Muslims also try to read the entire Quran (the Islamic holy book) during the month of Ramadan and attend additional prayers at the mosque.
The concept of Sawm, or fasting, is mentioned in the Quran as an important act of worship for Muslims. Here are some key verses that address the topic of fasting:
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183): This verse introduces the obligation of fasting during the month of Ramadan. It states that fasting has been prescribed for believers as it was prescribed for those before them, emphasizing its significance as a means of attaining righteousness and developing taqwa.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185): This verse further explains the purpose of fasting in Ramadan. It highlights that fasting is meant to help believers complete the prescribed period and glorify Allah for guiding them. It also mentions that the Quran was revealed during this month, indicating its special status.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187): This verse addresses the rules and etiquette of fasting. It instructs believers to maintain the fast until the night and avoid marital relations during the fasting hours. It encourages intimacy during the nights of Ramadan and emphasizes the importance of self-restraint and patience.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196): This verse pertains to the Hajj pilgrimage, but it also mentions the obligation of fasting as part of the Hajj rituals. It states that whoever intends to perform Hajj must observe fasting for a specified number of days.
These verses provide a glimpse into the Quran’s teachings on fasting. They emphasize the obligation of fasting during Ramadan, the spiritual and moral benefits associated with it, and the rules and etiquette to be followed while fasting.