Ramadan and Fasting (5/15)

The revelations from God to Prophet Muhammad that would eventually be compiled as the Qur’an began in the year 610 CE. The fast of Ramadan did not become a religious obligation for Muslims until the year 624 CE. The obligation to fast is explained in the second chapter of the Qur’an: “O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may become careful about your duties toward God … Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting…” (The Qur’an, Chapter 2, verses 183 and 185)