Muslims don’t achieve this closeness to God and discipline just by giving up food and drink from sunrise to sunset, but also things like gossiping, swearing, lying, sexual activity and arguing. It’s also important to give zakat, or donate to the poor. The purpose is to make better choices and tune out the noise to make space for spirituality.
Those participating in the fast are encouraged to really look inward and ask themselves if they’re being the best person, friend, spouse, child or sibling they can be.
So, don’t be concerned for your Muslim peers and their lack of food and drink. Their energy levels might not be the same, but it’s all for a reason and it’s not meant to be easy. Think of it as a spiritual intermittent fast or detox.
No, not even water
“The most common question I get is, ‘Not even water?!’” said Mohamed Labib, 29.
And Labib is not alone — many Muslims say this is the most frequently asked question they get every year from their non-Muslim peers.
To settle it once and for all: No, not even water. No gum either. But your Muslim friends also want you to know that they can still brush their teeth and shower — maintaining good hygiene is an integral part of Islam.
It’s OK to eat and drink in front of Muslims observing the fast
“A lot of people refrain from eating and drinking in front of a fasting individual out of respect, but some of them take it to the next level,” said 30-year-old Tarek Halabi, who started fasting at 14 years old. “They’d be worried if they ate or drank, even if by mistake, as if either party would be harmed somehow.”
Fasting Muslims may appreciate the thoughtfulness, but one of the purposes of the fast is to strengthen discipline, especially in the face of any and all temptations.
This includes watching a colleague sip their coffee during a meeting, or seeing a friend bite into a doughnut — it’s all part of the package.
Some people are exempt from the fast
Don’t be alarmed if you see your friend who usually observes…
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