by Susan E. Carr

Created on: August 25, 2009   Last Updated: March 13, 2011

Observing the practice of siyyam or sawm, which is a period of fasting, occurs during the holy month of Ramadan in the ninth lunar cycle of the Islamic calendar and is consistent with the emergence of the new moon. This practice is dedicated to prayer and to God and recognizes the 'Qur'an", the word of God, as was revealed to Mohammad. The purpose of fasting is self-purification of mind, body and spirit, it is about sacrifice and reflection, and it is the fourth of the five pillars or duties of the Muslim faith. The practice of fasting has ancient origins and predates the Koran in the time of Mohammad.

Fasting is observed daily from sunup to sundown and is only broken with the performance of Maghrib, the fourth daily prayer which takes place at dusk. Iftar refers to the evening meal following Maghrib and is usually done within the community and perhaps held in a family home. Most commonly the first thing to be eaten is a date, but iftar will include other items depending upon the country of origin (Iran, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Parkistan, Sri Lanka). For example, in Iran a selection of foods is prepared including bread (lavash or barbari), cheese, fresh herbs, sweets and halva. Tea, such as Darjeerling is also served. In the United States iftar meals can be held in colleges or universities for both Muslim and non-Muslim students. As well, the United States Department of State holds an iftar dinner for society community leaders, foreign policy officials and faith groups. Some families may believe in giving food to the poor or in taking food to the mosques.

Purification is encouraged and observed not only with abstinence from food, but by abstinence from gossip, expressions of anger or arguing, envy and sexual activity. Women may choose to do the hijab (the wearing of a veil) at their jobs or in public places during this time. Many Muslims read the Qur'an in its entirety. Sunni Muslims have nightly recitations of extra prayers or Tarawih, while Shite Muslims pray a prayer called Salat al Layl.

Muslims observe the final day of fasting with special traditions, prayer and reflection. There may be parties among women which include dancing and singing and the eating of traditional foods. They may paint henna on their hands and prepare for the next day which is called Eid-ul-fitr (festival of breaking the fast). Eid will begin with breakfast. It is a day of attending the mosque and visiting family and friends, and perhaps even giving gifts or money.

Observing Ramadan has many different meanings and is unique to the individual. Some may feel that fasting is a reminder to them of others around the world who cannot afford food and do not have 3 meals each day. To some it is the realization that if they can restrain themselves from their negative traits such as anger for the month, they can continue in this way after Ramadan, making restraint a way of being. Others may focus on prayer and reading while feeling a closer connection to God, family and the world.

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