Chapter 1.5 : Fiqh of Siyam (Fasts)

Introduction : Fiqh of Siyam

In the previous subchapter, you have learnt about zakat. This subchapter will introduce you to the act of fasting. You will be equipped with the knowledge on the difference between the types of fasting, the categories of people who are supposed to fast and those who are exempted from fasting. You will understand the nullifiers of fasting and its importance. Fasting is another pillar of Islam. It is always started
when the Muslims have cited the moon.
Meaning and Value of Fasting
Literally, fasting or saum is to keep away from eating, drinking and talking. An individual who keeps himself or herself from such things then he/she is considered ‘saaim’. Saaim is the observer of fast.
Saum is an act of worshipping Allah. It is the abstinence from all fast breakers such as physical nourishment, food, drink, and sex with the intention of pleasing Allah.

Allah the Exalted says:
“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (learn) self-restraints” (A1 — Baqara 2:183)

Types of Fasting
Fasting has particular types. What are these types? There are Muslimswho fast at different times of the year.
Activity 1.5.1 Discussing and writing the types of fasting

In groups,
Discuss and write down the different types of fasting. Share your answers with the rest of the class.

Benefits of Fasting
Muslims do not fast continuously throughout the 24 hours of the day. They eat before dawn and break their fast at sunset each day. Scientists have found that short periods of fasting if properly controlled, can have several health benefits.
Activity 1.5.2 Discussing the benefits of fasting

In pairs or groups, share the benefits of fasting to an individual Muslim and the community. Share your answers with the whole class.
People who are supposed to fast and those exempted from fasting
Activity 1.5.3 Studying the pictures and answering the questions that follow
Study the pictures below and reflect on people who are supposed to fast.

1. Mention the categories of people you see in Figures 1.5.2—1.5.5.
2.Identify the people who are supposed to fast.
3.Mention the categories of people who are not supposed to fast.
4.Share your answers with the class.

you learnt about the people who are supposed and not supposed to fast. You should think about the nullifiers of fasting. What are the things that nullify fasting in Islam?
Things which spoil fasting There are things that spoil fasting. Do you know that when a Muslim fasts, then he or she is supposed to keep him/herself away from those things? In the next activity, you will know those things which spoil one’s fasting.
Activity 1.5.4 Discussing the things that spoil fasting
In groups,
1.Identify the things that spoil one’s fasting.

2. Share your answers with the whole class.