Sawm
Introduction to Sawm (Fasting)
Sawm is the fourth pillar of Islam, observed by fasting from dawn (Subh-e-Sadiq) until sunset (Maghrib). It is primarily practiced during the month of Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. Fasting was made obligatory (Farz) in the 2nd year of Hijrat.
Classification: Types of Fasting
- Farz (Obligatory): Fasting during the entire month of Ramadan and the fasts of compensation (Kaffarah).
- Wajib (Necessary): Fasts for fulfilling a vow (Nazar).
- Sunnat: Fasts performed on specific days by the Prophet (PBUH) (e.g., 9th and 10th of Muharram).
- Nafl (Voluntary): Fasts for additional reward (e.g., six days of Shawwal, Mondays, and Thursdays).
The Ramadan Master Table
| Term | Definition | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Suhoor (Sehri) | Pre-dawn meal | Before Fajr starts |
| Iftar | Breaking the fast | At the time of Maghrib |
| Tarawih | Special night prayer | Performed only in Ramadan |
| Itikaf | Spiritual seclusion | Usually last 10 days of Ramadan |
| Laylat-ul-Qadr | Night of Power | Better than a thousand months |
Key Scientific & Theological Facts
- Ramadan is the month in which the Holy Quran was first revealed.
- Fasting promotes self-discipline, empathy for the poor, and spiritual detoxification.
- Exemptions: Travelers, the sick, elderly, and pregnant/nursing women are exempt but must compensate later.
- Fidya is the compensation paid by those who cannot fast due to permanent illness or old age (feeding one poor person per day).
- Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated on the 1st of Shawwal to mark the end of the fasting month.
Subject Card Prompts (Flashcards)
- Q: In which Hijri year was fasting made obligatory?
- A: 2 A.H.
- Q: What is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar?
- A: Ramadan.
- Q: What is the literal meaning of the word "Sawm"?
- A: To abstain or to refrain.
- Q: Which night is described in the Quran as being "better than a thousand months"?
- A: Laylat-ul-Qadr (The Night of Power).
Practice MCQ
"The spiritual seclusion practiced by Muslims in the mosque during the last ten days of Ramadan is known as:"
A) Tarawih
B) Itikaf
C) Tahajjud
D) Suhoor
(Correct: B - Itikaf)