Lesson 1 | Fasting | Al Fiqh Al Muyassar | Shaykh Khazen Zaoud

Gratitude is expressed for the opportunity to gather and seek sacred knowledge, which is essential for sincere worship. The importance of sincerity and correct practice in acts of worship is emphasized, particularly as it relates to fasting. As the blessed month approaches, Muslims are encouraged to renew their connection with Allah and prepare joyfully for this significant time.

The Divine Obligation of Fasting Fasting during Ramadan is a divine obligation for believers, prescribed to cultivate piety and righteousness. This command has been established since the time of previous prophets, emphasizing its significance across generations. The struggle involved in fasting serves as an opportunity to draw closer to Allah while developing self-discipline.

Mercy Through Concessions Allah provides concessions for those unable to fast due to illness or travel, allowing them flexibility in making up missed days later. These allowances reflect His mercy and understanding towards individual circumstances within the community of believers. It reassures that fulfilling this duty does not come at the cost of one's health or well-being.

The Significance of Ramadan's Revelation Ramadan holds special importance as it marks the revelation of the Quran—a guidance for humanity—making it a month filled with spiritual merit and blessings. Observing fasting during this period connects individuals deeply with their faith through increased recitation and reflection on God's words. Engaging consistently with scripture enhances one’s relationship with Allah throughout life.

Divine Proximity During Fasting In response to inquiries about God’s proximity, He assures that He is near when supplicants call upon Him; thus encouraging prayer especially before breaking fasts after long hours without food or drink. This emphasizes reliance on divine support amidst challenges faced during fasting periods while fostering communal prayers among families at sunset.

. New rulings regarding marital relations were introduced: spouses may now engage intimately until dawn breaks but must refrain from such activities if engaged in I'tikaf (spiritual retreat). Clear guidelines are set around permissible actions leading up till sunrise which fosters discipline even amid personal relationships within marriage under religious observance rules

Understanding Islamic Fasting: Definition and Intentions Fasting in Islam is defined as abstaining from certain actions, specifically eating and drinking, with the intention of worshiping Allah from dawn until sunset. The act requires a conscious decision to refrain not only from food but also sexual activity and anything that breaks the fast. Importantly, even unintentional acts can invalidate fasting unless they are done out of forgetfulness.

Conditions for Obligatory Fasting During Ramadan Four key conditions determine who must observe Ramadan's fast: reaching puberty (around 14-15 years), being Muslim (non-Muslims are exempt), possessing sanity (those mentally incapacitated aren't accountable), and having knowledge about this obligation if living in non-Muslim areas. Children under seven aren’t required to fast; however, teaching them gradually starts at age ten without imposing strictness for inability.

Further Requirements for Valid Observance of Fast Additional requirements include residency during Ramadan—travelers may be excused—and health status; those ill or fearing harm should not fast based on reasonable evidence or medical advice. Women cannot participate while menstruating or experiencing postnatal bleeding since their fasting would be invalidated by these natural processes.

Validity Conditions for Observing Fast During Ramadan For a valid observance of fasting during Ramadan, intentions must be made before dawn each day within specific timeframes set by Islamic law. If someone fails to make an intention prior to midday on any given day after starting it incorrectly due to menstrual issues or breaking rules like eating/drinking intentionally then their attempt will need compensating later after Eid al-Fitr ends the month-long period.

'Devotion Through Faith: Embracing Spiritual Connection 'The essence lies in devotion throughout every moment spent engaged actively towards pleasing Allah through prayerful remembrance alongside fulfilling obligatory duties such as charity work which enhances spiritual connection leading believers closer toward divine love.' This commitment fosters faith’s sweetness while distancing oneself away sinning behaviors ultimately guiding one back into righteousness aligned closely with God’s mercy & compassion both hereafter too!