A Comprehensive Ramadan Guide for Women:
Philosophy, Health Benefits, and Essential Jurisprudence
Ramadan is not just a month of fasting; it is a profound spiritual journey and a divine gift for believers. It is a sacred time for seeking forgiveness and mastering self-discipline. For a Muslim woman, who often serves as the cornerstone of the home and the first teacher for her children, understanding the true purpose of fasting and its legal rulings (Masail) is essential. In this blog, we explore the history of fasting, its spiritual essence, and detailed solutions to specific issues faced by women.
The Reality and Evolution of Fasting
In Sharia (Islamic Law), Fasting is defined as abstaining from eating, drinking, and marital relations from Subah Sadiq (dawn) until Sunset, with the explicit intention (Niyyah) of worship. Like other Islamic obligations, fasting was mandated gradually. Initially, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) instructed Muslims to fast only three days a month, but these were not obligatory. Later, in 2 A.H., the command for Ramadan was revealed in the Quran, making it the fourth pillar of Islam.
In the beginning, a concession was given: those who had the strength to fast but chose not to could feed a needy person as a ransom (Fidya). Later, a second decree was revealed, and this general concession was revoked, remaining valid only for those for whom fasting is extremely difficult, such as the very elderly, or pregnant and breastfeeding women who fear for their health.
The Core Purpose: Taqwa and God-Consciousness
The Quran states that the purpose of fasting is to establish Taqwa (God-consciousness). Consider these examples of spiritual discipline:
A person is fasting in the peak of summer; they are thirsty, alone in a room with a glass of cold water, yet they do not drink. They are hungry and have delicious food in front of them with no one watching, yet they do not eat. A man and his beloved wife are alone, but he restrains himself out of respect for the Divine command.
This practice proves that the greatness of Allah’s command is deeply rooted in the heart. When a believer learns to give up permissible (Halal) things for Allah, it becomes much easier for them to abandon forbidden (Haram) habits. This moral superiority is the ultimate goal of Sharia.
Health Benefits of Fasting
Both modern medicine and ancient healing traditions agree that fasting is one of the best treatments for physical ailments. The "heat" of hunger and thirst helps the body burn away waste products and toxins that ruin health. The physical vitality and internal "detox" achieved through fasting are hard to find through any other method.
Essential Rulings (Masail) for Women with References
Below are the detailed rulings as provided in classical Islamic texts, specifically curated for women:
1. The Method of Niyyah (Intention)
Intention is the name of the firm resolve in the heart. Verbalizing it is not a mandatory condition, but it is Mustahab (recommended). If intending at night, one should think: "I intend to keep the obligatory fast of this Ramadan tomorrow for Allah." If intending during the day (before mid-day), say: "I intend to keep the obligatory fast of Ramadan today for Allah."
2. Intention for Missed (Qaza) Fasts
If a woman has missed Ramadan fasts and wishes to make them up, the intention must be made at night or exactly at Subah Sadiq. If the intention is made during the day, that fast will be counted as Nafl (voluntary), not Qaza. However, once a Nafl fast is started, it is necessary to complete it; if broken, it must be made up. (Source: Durr-e-Mukhtar)
3. Applying Oil or Kohl (Surma)
Applying oil to the hair or Kohl to the eyes does not break the fast. Even if the taste of the oil or Kohl is felt in the throat, or the color of the Kohl appears in the saliva, the fast remains intact. (Source: Radd-ul-Muhtar)
4. State of Janabat (Ritual Impurity)
If a woman starts her fast in a state of ritual impurity (Janabat) or remains in that state throughout the day, the fast is still valid. However, intentionally delaying the Ghusl (ritual bath) to the point that a prayer is missed is a sin and forbidden. The Hadith states that angels of mercy do not enter a house where a "Junub" (impure person) resides. (Source: Durr-e-Mukhtar)
5. Age for Children’s Fasting
When a child enters their 8th year, the guardian should instruct them to pray and fast. When they reach their 11th year, the guardian is obligated to be firm regarding their prayers and fasts so they become accustomed to them. However, if fasting causes physical harm to the child, the ruling differs. (Source: Durr-e-Mukhtar, Fatawa Razawiyya)
6. Condition of Purity
For a woman's fast to be valid, it is a condition that she is free from Haiz (menstruation) and Nifas (post-natal bleeding). (Source: General Texts)
7. Becoming Pure During the Day
If a woman becomes pure from menstruation during the day, it is mandatory for her to spend the remainder of the day like a fasting person (abstaining from food and drink), and the Qaza for that day is also obligatory. (Source: Durr-e-Mukhtar)
8. Purity After Subah Sadiq
If a woman becomes pure after Subah Sadiq (dawn), even if it is before mid-day, and she makes the intention to fast, that fast will not be counted as valid for that day; she must make it up later. (Source: Durr-e-Mukhtar)
9. Coercion in Marital Relations
If a woman was forced into marital relations by her husband and later participated willingly during the act, she is not liable for Kaffara (expiation) because the fast was already broken under duress. Only Qaza is required. (Source: Jauhara)
10. Breaking Fast on the Assumption of Menses
If a woman usually has her period on a specific date and, assuming she would start bleeding that day, she intentionally broke her fast, but the bleeding did not actually occur, the Kaffara is waived (she only owes a Qaza). (Source: Durr-e-Mukhtar)
Moral Conduct and Discipline
The Prophet (PBUH) described fasting as a shield, as long as it is not "torn" by lies or backbiting. While sins are always forbidden, their prohibition becomes much more severe during Ramadan. Backbiting, bad intentions, and foul language become "strictly forbidden" during this holy month. This is a time for a "spiritual parade"—a time for the soldiers of Islam to remain vigilant every second.
For women, it is vital to keep the tongue busy with the remembrance of Allah while working in the kitchen. Reciting the Quran and various Tasbeehat ensures that the true blessings of the fast are attained. May Allah grant us steadfastness on the path of truth. Ameen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main purpose of fasting in Ramadan?
The main purpose of fasting is to develop Taqwa (God-consciousness), self-discipline, and spiritual purification.
Does applying oil or Surma break the fast?
No, applying oil to hair or Surma to the eyes does not break the fast even if the taste is felt in the throat.
Can women fast during menstruation?
No, fasting during menstruation is not valid. Women must make up the missed fasts later.
What should a woman do if she becomes pure during the day?
If a woman becomes pure during the day, she should abstain from food and drink for the rest of the day and make up the fast later.
Can pregnant or breastfeeding women skip fasting?
Yes, if fasting harms their health or the baby's health, they are allowed to skip fasting and make up the missed fasts later.
For more guidance on Islamic obligations for women, check out our detailed article: Zakat in Islam: Nisab, Rules & Calculation