Sawm

Significance of Ramadan: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is believed to be the month during which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Fasting during this month is a way to commemorate this event and to practice self-discipline and self-purification.

Spiritual purification: Sawm is not just about abstaining from physical needs; it's also a means for spiritual purification. It teaches self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate, thus encouraging actions of generosity and charity (Zakat and Sadaqah).

Exemptions: Certain groups are exempt from fasting, including children who have not reached puberty, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, travelers, and those who are physically or mentally ill. They can either make up the days later or provide food to the needy if they are unable to fast at all.

Nightly prayers: In addition to fasting, Muslims engage in extra prayers at night called Tarawih, during which longer portions of the Quran are recited.

Eid al-Fitr: The end of Ramadan is marked by a special celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast). It is one of the two major Islamic holidays and is characterized by communal prayers, feasting, and giving of charity.

Additional fasting: While Sawm is obligatory during Ramadan, Muslims are also encouraged to fast during other times of the year, such as the six days of Shawwal immediately following Ramadan, the Day of Arafah, the Day of Ashura, and most Mondays and Thursdays throughout the year.

Laylat al-Qadr: One of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan is believed to be Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), which is said to be better than a thousand months. The exact night is not known, which is why Muslims seek it in prayer during the last ten nights of Ramadan.