Fasting to Remember

In 2002 the British public were invited to join in a national day of Fasting to Remember the plight of those most in need. Joining the fast, many pledged money to provide clean water and sanitation, health care, employment opportunities and to help local charity causes.

When do I fast? This year the National Day of Fasting is Thursday 19th October 2006. It is in the 3rd week of the month of Ramadan, during which Muslims the world over observe a fast from dawn to sunset. For one day you can join in the experience of fasting and remember people who are less fortunate. People of many different faiths and backgrounds will be taking part to show that our diverse communities can get together in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and for a good cause.    

What is fasting all about? Fasting is an effort to remember we are more than individuals. Take one day to learn what it would be like to be without food and remember the millions in our world who suffer and need our help. 

Who can take part? Anybody who is willing and able can join the fast. Fasting is a spiritual effort, not an obstacle course. Anyone with a medical condition, pregnant women or nursing mothers are not required to fast. If in doubt, or for any other health concerns please consult with your GP beforehand. 

Do I have to fast for the whole day? You can fast for as long or as short as you like. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. On October 19th that’s approximately from 6am to 6pm. You’ll find yourself watching the clock - so check exact times, which vary from place to place, with your local mosque or in the ‘weather’ section of national newspapers. 

What does the fast consist of? Muslims take nothing that is ingested or swallowed - that’s food, drink or cigarettes. However you should choose for yourself how stringent you want to be. Muslims take a light meal before dawn, when the fast begins, then perform their morning prayer to remember why they are making the effort. Exactly at sunset comes break-fast, don’t delay, it’s a joyous moment. Muslims prefer to share with family and friends. As soon as the clock strikes sip a refreshing drink. Muslims usually eat dates and some favourite snack then perform their evening prayer to give thanks for the day. Sharing the collective effort and the joy of breaking fast is an important part of the spiritual lesson, get family and friends to join you and compare your experience, thoughts and feelings. Some localities will be hosting a charity dinner on the day. 

What is Ramadan? Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is the high point of the Muslim year, a time when each individual connects with others around the world to renew their faith, reflect on their lives and remember their responsibilities to fellow human beings. Fasting is an effort of self discipline, a profound spiritual lesson. It changes the normal pattern of daily life, making us conscious of the hardships of those in need. A shared effort, it encourages us to be considerate to those around us, control our anger, speak kindly to one another, help and support each other to remember the true purpose of fasting. Ramadan is a time to rededicate ourselves to the values of peace, justice and equity. It is a time for giving, of ourselves to spiritual devotions and of the means we have to those in need. Fasting purifies the body, giving in charity purifies our livelihood.