Question: What are the Islamic requirements for fasting during Ramadan?
For the Muslim, the fast of Ramadan has specific regulations and rules (fiqh). Islamic scholars have outlined the fasting requirements for the general population, and explain the accommodations that can be made when someone is unable to fast because of sickness or other health reasons.
Answer: While many of the general fasting requirements are the same for everyone, it is best to consult one of the many detailed fiqh resources for specific rules and special circumstances. These links give more detailed information on general guidelines and special cases such as sickness, pregnancy, chronic health problems, and more.
- 70 Matters Related to Fasting - by Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid, this series of articles covers rules and benefits of fasting
- Kitaab as-Sawm (Book of Fasting) - compiled by the Mujlisul-Ulama of South Africa
- Ramadan Rules & Regulations - based on Every Day Fiqh by Maulana Yusuf Islahi, translated by Abdul Aziz Kamal
