Things To Abstain From During Ramadan

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred period for Muslims worldwide.

It is a time of fasting, reflection, prayer, and community. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from consuming food and drink.

However, the fast encompasses more than just abstaining from eating and drinking; it also includes a range of behaviors and activities that faithful are encouraged to avoid to maintain the spiritual purity and discipline that the month demands.

Here’s a detailed look at things to abstain from during Ramadan:

1. Eating And Drinking

The most well-known aspect of Ramadan is the fast, which involves abstaining from eating and drinking from pre-dawn (Suhoor) until sunset (Iftar). This includes avoiding all food, beverages, and even smoking during daylight hours.

2. Ill Speech And Actions

Muslims are encouraged to refrain from ill speech, such as lying, gossiping, cursing, and all forms of backbiting or slander. Ramadan serves as a time to cultivate good manners and speech, encouraging individuals to engage in positive and beneficial conversations.

3. Engaging In Sexual Activities

During the daylight hours of Ramadan, sexual activities between married couples are also prohibited. The fast is not only a physical abstention but also a moral and spiritual cleansing that encompasses all aspects of human desires and behaviours.

4. Negative Emotions And Actions

Ramadan is a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth, which means abstaining from anger, envy, greed, and other negative emotions and behaviours. Muslims are encouraged to practice patience, humility, and forgiveness, striving to maintain a peaceful and harmonious state of mind.

5. Impure Thoughts And Deeds

The fasting of Ramadan is also a fast of the mind and heart. Muslims strive to purify their thoughts and intentions, avoiding impure or harmful thoughts and focusing on positive and righteous deeds.

6. Excessive Entertainment and Distractions

While not strictly forbidden, Muslims are encouraged to minimize distractions such as excessive television watching, idle internet browsing, and other forms of entertainment that may divert attention from spiritual reflection and devotion. Ramadan is a time to increase worship, Quranic recitation, and remembrance of God.

7. Overindulgence During Non-Fasting Hours

Even outside the fasting hours, moderation is encouraged. Overeating during Suhoor or Iftar can counteract the physical and spiritual benefits of fasting. Muslims are advised to eat and drink in moderation, focusing on nourishing and wholesome foods.

8. Harmful Substances

The use of harmful substances, such as drugs and alcohol, is prohibited in Islam and is especially discouraged during Ramadan. The month provides an opportunity for individuals to cleanse their bodies and minds, fostering a healthier and more disciplined lifestyle.