Ramadan, the most sacred month of the Islamic calendar, is a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship. Muslims worldwide observe this holy month by fasting during daylight hours, engaging in extra prayer, and performing acts of charity.
However, Ramadan isn’t just about refraining from food and drink; it’s also a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-discipline and sacrifice.
As we journey through these days of Ramadan, it’s essential to remember that the main rule of fasting extends beyond the physical act. It’s not only a test of physical endurance but also a golden opportunity to refresh our spiritual health and cultivate good habits.
For both our Muslim friends and those curious about Islamic culture, understanding what to avoid during this holy month is crucial.
What Can’t You Do During Ramadan?
Before getting into the specifics of what to avoid during Ramadan, it’s important to grasp the essence of this holy month. Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, a period marked not just by physical restraint but also by spiritual enrichment.
It’s a time when the Muslim community unites in a shared journey of faith, discipline, and self-reflection. The fasting during Ramadan is not merely about abstaining from eating or drinking; it’s a holistic discipline that encompasses all aspects of one’s behavior and thoughts.
Here are five key things to avoid during the holy month of Ramadan to ensure a spiritually rewarding and healthy fasting experience
Avoid Eating and Drinking During Daylight Hours
This is the most well-known aspect of Ramadan fasting. From the pre-dawn meal, known as Suhoor, until the evening meal, Iftar, Muslims refrain from consuming any food or drinks. This includes avoiding water, which means it’s important to drink plenty of fluids during non-fasting hours to stay hydrated.
The discipline of not eating or drinking during daylight hours is not just a physical challenge; it’s a spiritual exercise in empathy and gratitude. It reminds the fasting friend of the daily struggles of those less fortunate.
By experiencing hunger and thirst, one develops compassion and a deeper appreciation for the blessings in life. This practice also aligns with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad, emphasizing the importance of following Islamic teachings in daily life.
In the context of abstaining from eating and drinking during daylight hours in Ramadan, it’s important to address common concerns like accidentally swallowing one’s own saliva, or the permissibility of brushing teeth.
Islamic scholars agree that unintentionally swallowing saliva does not invalidate the fast, as it is a natural and unavoidable act. Similarly, brushing teeth is generally considered acceptable, as long as one is careful not to swallow any water or toothpaste.
The key is the intention behind these actions. Fasting in Ramadan is fundamentally about sincere devotion and purity of intention.
Therefore, as long as your actions are not deliberately aimed at breaking the fast, such as intentionally drinking water while brushing, your fast remains valid.
This approach underscores the Islamic teaching that actions are judged by intentions. So, while you avoid eating and drinking, focus on maintaining a pure intention in all your actions during the fasting hours, aligning your daily practices with the spirit of Ramadan.
Refrain from Sexual Relations During Fasting Hours
Along with abstaining from food and drink, Muslims are also expected to avoid sexual activity during the fasting period. This practice helps in focusing on spiritual growth and self-discipline.
The restriction on sexual activity during the fasting hours from dawn to dusk goes beyond physical restraint.
It’s a commitment to purity and mindfulness, redirecting one’s energy and thoughts towards spiritual activities and contemplation. This practice helps in strengthening personal relationships through mutual respect and understanding, creating a deeper bond with the divine.
Note: You do not have to refrain from physical activity for the entire month of ramadan. Between the time of Iftar and suhoor, this is permissable in Islamic law and a good time to reconnect with your spouse.
Related: 5 Beautiful Qur’an Verses about Love and Marriage
Control Your Language and Actions
Ramadan is a time to shed bad habits and improve character. This includes avoiding swearing, backbiting, lying, cheating, and judging others. It’s not just a physical fast but also a moral one, where controlling one’s temper and tongue becomes as important as controlling hunger and thirst.
The emphasis on controlling language and actions is crucial in cultivating a peaceful and respectful community. This aspect of fasting helps in breaking the cycle of bad habits like gossip, anger, and envy.
By being mindful of one’s words and actions, a person can develop better communication and stronger relationships, reflecting the true spirit of Ramadan during your daily fast.
The intention is to continue with this improved behaviour and leave these negative habits behind, even after the end of Ramadan.
In addition to controlling language and actions, a significant aspect to consider during Ramadan is the efficient use of time. It’s a period where every moment counts, and wasting time on frivolous or unproductive activities can detract from the spiritual benefits of this holy month.
Instead of spending hours on idle pursuits or entertainment, prioritize activities that enhance your spiritual well-being. This includes engaging in worship, reading the Holy Quran, participating in special prayers, and seeking knowledge about Islamic teachings.
The time spent in reflection, prayer, and learning not only brings you closer to Allah but also helps in cultivating a deeper understanding of your faith.
This disciplined approach to time management can lead to a more fulfilling and spiritually rewarding Ramadan, allowing you to truly embrace the essence of this blessed month.
Related: How To Perform Dua In Taraweeh Prayer
Avoid Overindulgence During Non-Fasting Hours
While it may be tempting to feast during Iftar and Suhoor, it’s advised to maintain a healthy diet with moderate portions.
Consuming large meals or unhealthy foods can lead to health problems like weight gain, high blood pressure, and digestive issues. Embrace foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins for a balanced diet.
Maintaining a balanced diet during Ramadan is not only important for physical health but also for spiritual well-being.
Overindulgence contradicts the spirit of Ramadan, which promotes simplicity and moderation. Eating nutritious and balanced meals during Suhoor and Iftar ensures sustained energy levels and a focused mind for worship and reflection.
Once the time comes for breaking of the fast, prioritise the right food which will give you energy and nutrition to get through the next day, and will maintain your health. Try to drink as much water as you need, to remain hydrated throughout the most sacred month of the year, and avoid over dosing on fatty foods and salty foods non stop.
While it’s recommended to avoid overindulgence during Ramadan, this doesn’t mean you can’t host beautiful Iftar dinners for family, friends, or those in need.
In fact, inviting others to break their fast together is a practice rich in rewards and is highly encouraged in Islam. Such gatherings strengthen community bonds and offer an opportunity to earn blessings by feeding fasting individuals.
When hosting these dinners, aim for a balance – make them pleasant and enjoyable without going to the extremes of extravagance.
Remember, these moments are not just about the food, but also about the unity and spirit of sharing they foster. As you enjoy these more luxurious meals, it’s important to feel gratitude towards Allah for the blessings of sustenance and companionship.
On days when you’re not hosting guests, practicing humility with simpler meals can be a good way to maintain balance.
This approach allows you to enjoy the communal aspect of Ramadan and Iftar, while still adhering to the principles of moderation and thankfulness.
Stay Away from Negative Thoughts and Actions
Ramadan is a time for positive growth and spiritual renewal. Avoid engaging in activities that are harmful to yourself or others, such as gossiping, excessive spending, or neglecting prayers. Instead, focus on charitable giving, family bonding, and personal development.
Steering clear of negative thoughts and actions during Ramadan paves the way for a more fulfilling and meaningful fast. This time of year is an opportunity to practice patience, forgiveness, and kindness, essential qualities encouraged in Islamic teachings.
By nurturing positive thoughts and deeds, one can achieve a sense of inner peace and a stronger connection with Allah.
Related: What Is Istighfar in Islam? The Amazing Power of Seeking Forgiveness
A crucial aspect to avoid during Ramadan, particularly under the umbrella of negative thoughts and actions, is the act of judging others.
This includes refraining from making assumptions about those who may not be fasting, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women. These individuals often have valid exemptions under Islamic law due to their unique health needs. It’s important to remember that everyone’s situation and relationship with their faith are personal and complex.
Judging others not only breeds negativity and division within the community but also detracts from one’s own spiritual journey.
When we judge others, we divert our focus from self-reflection and personal growth, hindering our own relationship with Allah.
Ramadan is a time to elevate oneself spiritually by practicing empathy and understanding, rather than indulging in petty and destructive behaviors like judgment.
Ramadan is not just about starving yourself from food and drink; it’s an opportunity to starve the ego and feed the soul.
By understanding and practicing these principles, Muslims can strive for a deeper and more meaningful connection with their faith, while non-Muslims can gain insights into the profound spiritual and moral discipline that Ramadan embodies.
When we bid farewell to the holy month and welcome Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of Ramadan, let’s carry forward the lessons and habits we’ve developed.
Let this Ramadan be more than just a memory; let it be a catalyst for lasting positive change in our lives and in our communities.
May the purity, peace, and blessings of Ramadan linger in our hearts throughout the year.
Ramadan Mubarak!
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