What Are the Rules of Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is a sacred time for Muslims around the world. During this month, adult Muslims fast from dawn until sunset every day.

The main rule of Ramadan fasting is that Muslims must abstain from food, drink, and smoking during daylight hours. Fasting begins at the Fajr prayer (dawn) and ends at Maghrib (sunset).

In addition to avoiding food and drink, Muslims are encouraged to avoid bad behavior such as lying, arguing, or gossiping. Ramadan is meant to be a time of spiritual purification and self-control.

Muslims also increase their acts of worship during Ramadan. Many people pray additional prayers called Taraweeh, read the Qur’an more frequently, and give charity to those in need.

Certain people are exempt from fasting, including young children, the elderly, people who are ill, travelers, and pregnant or breastfeeding women in some situations.