Sawm Flashcards
Sawm
Mandatory fasting from dawn till dusk during the month of Ramadan.
Why is Sawm mandatory
It says to in the Qur’an and is one of the 5 pillars of Islam
“Decreed upon you is fasting” “that you may become righteous”
Why do they complete sawm (5)
- Ramadan is the moth the prophet receive first verse of Qur’an
- follows the example of prophet Muhammad
- allows them to identify with the poor
- reminder of blessings of God + closer to God
- Jesus (isa) taught his disciples to fast
What is fasting
Abstaining from food and drink, smoking and sexual intercourse from dawn until dusk for 29/30 days
Benefits of Sawm (3)
- promotes self control
- helps recharge spiritual batteries
- unites Muslim ummah
Il-uh-fitar
Celebration marking the end of Ramadan
Who takes part in Sawm
All except children, ill, and travelling. I’ll and travelling have to make up. “Whoever among you is ill, or on a journey … then an equal number of other days”
What is the significance of Ramadan for fasting?
“It was the month of Ramadan that the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for mankind”
Why is fasting difficult in Britain
Muslims may have to fast for up to 19 hours in Britain. While in the Middle East they only have to fast for up to 15 hours. This is especially difficult for students with exams in summer.
Why do Muslims frequent mosques more during Ramadan
They gather for extra night prayers. This includes recitation of the Qur’an so that, by the end of the month, the whole Qur’an has been recited.
