In the name of Allah the Beneficient, the Merciful may His peace and blessings be upon the noblest Prophet his companions, household and those who follow his footstep untill the day of judgement. Amen.

Fasting, like prayer, is also an act of worship and is the Fourth Pillar of Islam. It is compulsory for all Muslims, both men and women, children; but pregnant women, the sick and travellers are exempted from fasting. But travellers have to observe fasting after the end of their journey, pregnant women after the delivery of their child and the sick when they becoe well. Women during the period of menstrution need not to fast but have to make up the lost days afterwards.

People in distress, hardship, or inconvenience are exempted from fasting but have to make up the lost fasting days afterwards. Fasting is for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number should be made up from the days later.

As an Institution of Islam

Fasting is another important institution of islam. It has always been an obligatory duty on believers even before the advent of Prophet Muhammad. All the previous nations were commanded to observe fasting

"O you who believe Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may learn self-restraint" (Quran 2: 183). Fasting has been universally recognized by all Faiths. It is practised by Hindus and Jews. Prophet Musa and Isah practised fasting and enjoined it on their followers. Disciples of Isah fasted but this institution later lost its true significance.

Prophet Muhammad was asked to re-establish this institution in its proper place and form. He was ordered to fast during the month of Ramadan.