AS-SIYAM (FASTING)

. INTRODUCTION

Siyam is prescribed by the Shari’ah in Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
Siyam means to abstain from something. In islam,Siyam as it relates to the ordinance of
fasting does not mean abstinence from just anything indefinitely. It means abstinence
from those things which are otherwise HALAL (lowful) but are to be abstained from for a
given period. Thus, things which are explicitly HARAM (forbidden) are, in the place, to
be avoided completely at all times, more so when one is fasting, save where particular
circumstances dictate.

Fasting is the fourth obligatory pillar of Islam. Other obligatory and voluntary fasts are
also prescribed. For a general information,a summary of the importance,virtues and
requirements of the obligatory and voluntary fasts are undertaken here in thirteen aspects.

. THE IMPORTANCE OF FASTING

Fasting is an obligatory institution in Islam. The Quraan enjoins:

O You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for
those before you, that you may become pious (Surah Al- Baqarah, 2:183).

Its is moreover required that believers fast a fixed number of day s which is the entire
month of Ramadan. The Qurran stipulates:

( fast ) for a fixed number of days (Surah Al- Baqarah , 2:184).

Ramadan is the month in which was sent down the Qurran, as a guide to mankind, also
clear ( Signs ) for guidance and judgement ( between right and wrong ). So every one
of you who is present ( at his home ) during that month should spent it
fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period ( should
be made up) by days later. ALLAH intends every facility for you, he does not want
to put you difficulties. ( he wants you ) to comlete the prescribed period, and to
glorify into Him in that He has guided you ; and perchance you shall be grateful.( surah
Al- Baqarah, 2 :185).
 For whose who can do it ( with hardship ), is a ransom, the feeding of one
that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will- it is better
for him. And its better for you that you fast, is you only knew ( Surah Al –
baqarah, 2 : 185).