Question 1

What are the pillars of Ramadan fasting?

Accepted Answer

The two pillars of Sawm (fasting) are: (1) Niyyah — the intention to fast, made before Fajr each night; and (2) Imsak — refraining from food, drink, and sexual relations from Fajr until Maghrib. Scholars (Hanbali and Maliki) say the intention must be renewed each night for obligatory fasts.

Question 2

What is Laylat al-Qadr and when is it?

Accepted Answer

Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power) is the night in which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet ﷺ. Allah describes it as 'better than a thousand months' (Quran 97:3). The Prophet ﷺ instructed us to seek it in the odd nights of the last 10 days of Ramadan — especially the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights.

Question 3

What invalidates the fast?

Accepted Answer

The fast is invalidated (requiring Qada and possibly Kaffarah) by: intentionally eating or drinking, deliberate vomiting, sexual intercourse, and for women, the onset of menstruation or post-natal bleeding. Accidentally eating or drinking due to forgetfulness does NOT invalidate the fast — continue fasting when you remember. (Bukhari & Muslim)

Question 4

Can I make up missed fasts after Ramadan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Missed fasts (Qada) due to illness, travel, menstruation, or other valid reasons must be made up before the next Ramadan. For deliberate breaking without excuse, both Qada and Kaffarah (expiation) are required by some scholars. For pregnancy and breastfeeding, the majority opinion requires Qada only.

Question 5

What is I'tikaf in Ramadan?

Accepted Answer

I'tikaf is seclusion in the mosque for worship, especially in the last 10 nights of Ramadan. The Prophet ﷺ observed I'tikaf every Ramadan and doubled it in his final year. During I'tikaf, one remains in the mosque, engaged in prayer, Quran recitation, and dhikr, avoiding leaving except for necessary needs.