Muslims fast for a month during Ramadan, but what is the reason behind it?
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan sees Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahadah (profession of faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity) and Hajj (pilgrimage). The practice originates from the time when the Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation in 610 AD. During this time, he was visited by an angel who ordered him to fast for a month. This tradition has been followed by Muslims ever since.
During Ramadan, Muslims are not allowed to eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. Exceptions are made for those who are ill or travelling, but otherwise breaking fast during this time is considered sinful. Instead, Muslims must be mindful of their actions throughout the day and make sure they aren’t distracted by worldly desires.
