Fasting: How many days exactly?
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My apologies if this has already been discussed, and if it has, I would appreciate it if someone can provide a link to the discussion.
The verse regarding fasting that I have read is vague and without any specific reference to the number of days or when the fast should begin. Perhaps this is the result of an incorrect English translation but basically all it states is that we are required to fast like those before us. The Sunni month-long fast I'm assuming comes from Hadith; I understand the Shias fast a shorter number of days, the exact number I'm not sure about.
Are the number of days and time of year specifically mentioned in the Quran? If so, can someone please provide the correct English translation of the verse? Thank you in advance.
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Peace Everyone,
So....according to brother Ayman's interpretation, Ramadan starts on the first full moon after the summer solstice and it is only a 10 day fast? Did I interpret his article correctly? If so...I would be very curious to know how many of you also observe Ramadan in this manner. Thank you for responding.
Peace
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Peace,
Respectfully.2183 O you who believe, fasting has been decreed for you as it was decreed for those before you, perhaps you may be righteous.
2184 A few number of days; however, if any of you is ill or traveling, then the same number from different days; and as for those who can do so but with difficulty, they may redeem by feeding the needy. And whoever does good voluntarily, then it is better for him. And if you fast it is better for you if you knew.
2185 The month of Ramadhan, in which the Qur?an was revealed; as a guide to the people and a clarification of the guidance and the criterion. Therefore, whoever of you witnesses the month, then let him fast therein. And whoever is ill or traveling, then the same number from different days. God wants to bring you ease and not to bring you hardship; and so that you may complete the count, and glorify God for what He has guided you, that you may be thankful.
2186 And if My servants ask you about Me, I am near answering the calls of those who call to Me. So let them respond to Me and believe in Me that they may be guided.
2187 It has been made lawful for you during the night of fasting to approach your women sexually. They are a garment for you and you are a garment for them. God knows that you used to betray your souls so He has accepted your repentance, and forgiven you; now you may approach them and seek what God has written for you. And you may eat and drink until the white thread is distinct from the black thread of dawn; then you shall complete the fast until night; and do not approach them while you are devoted in the temples. These are God?s boundaries, so do not transgress them. It is thus that God makes His revelations clear to the people that they may be righteous.