The month of Ramadan has began during which millions of Muslims will be fasting.
When a person fasts in the Islamic tradition he or she does not eat, drink, chew gum, smoke or engage in sexual activity from sun rise to sun set. However, the not-eating-or-drinking part is only a very small part of the fast. The fast itself has a much bigger meaning. This is a time devoted to prayer, reflection and doing good deeds; conversely abstaining from gluttony and bad things. So, one does not fast by only staying away from food and water. One must also say no lies, think no bad thoughts about anyone, not gossip, not cheat, not steal, not kill, not go to any places of questionable repute, not gamble, not drink alcohol, not do drugs, etc. The fast must be observed with each organ and appendage of the body as well as the mind. The fast is all encompassing.
People who have reached puberty and are in good health are expected to fast. However, if one's health is not good and therefore a fast cannot be observed safely (the not-eating-or-drinking part), then the person is excused in the eyes of God.
The overall purpose of the fast is to uplift the ego and bring the person closer to God, and therefore Enlightenment.
I wish all Muslims a Happy Ramadan!
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