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Ramadan is a holy month for all Muslims, which provides for the observance of the holy fast, which consists in giving up daily food, drink and smoking. The 30-day fast is observed by a significant part of the population of Turkmenistan.

The main purpose of fasting is to demonstrate the strength of one's faith. Why is it possible to prove her sincerity in this way? Because most Muslim countries are located in a sharply continental climate zone, characterized by extreme temperature changes and debilitating heat. And abstaining from the elementary use of any liquid is considered a real achievement.

However, the incorrect interpretation of some rituals and the very meaning of fasting leads to misconceptions about how to behave correctly during this sacred month. In this regard, ORIENT decided to answer the most common questions concerning the topic of Muslim fasting. The editorial office was greatly assisted in this matter by the advice of the Turkmen hajis and imams of the Muftiate of Turkmenistan.

What is fasting? And why is he being held?

Holy fasting is a time when Muslims consciously refuse food and water until the sun's rays disappear over the horizon. This is a period when Muslims approach the recitation of prayers and prayer more responsibly than before, giving out voluntary and mandatory donations.

The expression of the intention to observe fasting (niyat), which sounds like "niet" in Turkmen, is considered mandatory. You can express your desire before the beginning of the holy month once. Fasting is observed in order to establish the tenets of faith in the human soul. In Turkmenistan, the tradition of fasting has become not only a religious, but also a cultural component of the national code. Therefore, we can safely say that fasting is also a Turkmen custom, a tribute of ordinary people to the rites of their grandfathers and great–grandfathers, who hold together generations separated by a millennium of history.

Is it possible to swim? Brush your teeth?

The unequivocal answer is that it is possible. But only if it is done for the purpose of maintaining physical cleanliness, and not latent thirst quenching. During bathing, water should not get into the mouth, paste when brushing teeth – into the throat. It is also undesirable to dive into the water, it is better to just take a shower.

What should I do if I couldn't stand it and ate something?

Fasting is considered one of the main tenets of the Islamic religion. Conscious violation of fasting is a grave sin. It is advised not to fast being unsure of their physical abilities. The most reliable "medicine" in this case is sincere remorse for the insult inflicted. It will be necessary to feed at least 60 poor people or fast for two months in a row.

What should I do if I accidentally ate something?

Accidental consumption of food or liquid due to forgetfulness is not a violation of the holy fast. On the contrary, a person who accidentally ate or drank something is distinguished by special love on the part of God. All that needs to be done at such moments is to humbly apologize with prayer. If your conscience does not allow you to just close your eyes to this, then you can refrain from eating and drinking for another day, in addition to one month.

Is it possible for non-Muslims to keep a fast?

Must not. Fasting is mandatory for all Muslims. A Muslim is a person who recognizes Allah and the Prophet Muhammad as the only sources of divine authority on earth. Since other religions believe in their gods, then fasting will not be relevant and fulfilling its direct purpose. Of course, representatives of other faiths can fast and feel what every Muslim is experiencing, but the "effect" of this observance will not be recognized.

Is it necessary to do "agz achar"?

Agz achar is a ritual mass iftar dinner with the participation of numerous relatives, friends and acquaintances. In Turkmenistan, Muslims very often perform "agz achar", which pleases their entire entourage with a feast.

Of course, such a gesture of goodwill will be rewarded by higher powers. Every Muslim is recommended to organize at least a small "agz achar" by inviting the most dear people to his home.

What is better not to do during the fast?

The most important thing is not to indulge in bad thoughts, to be measured and calm. Expressing irritability and negativity, the post that you keep will not find a response in your conscience and soul. You can not abuse hot drinks, smoking – in general, it is worth giving up all bad habits.

This month can serve as an excellent reason to start your life with a clean slate, letting go of all your sins and being cleansed of the sins of the past. It is also forbidden to slander, gossip, slander and deceive, because this month every sin is perceived more acutely than usual.

It's time to help the poor: "bash petre" (obligatory alms) was established this year by the Muftiate of Turkmenistan in the amount of 12 manats per person.

Who should keep the post?

Able-bodied, physically healthy Muslims over the age of 15 who do not plan to move or travel far.

Who can not keep a fast?

Old people and children who are unsure that they will be able to endure the severity of fasting, the mentally ill, as well as those suffering from chronic depression or stress, patients with severe diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and others.

Fasting is also undesirable for nursing mothers and travelers who are unsure of their financial capabilities in their country of residence.

Is it possible to take medications during fasting and drip drops?

Applying ointments to various areas of the skin, inhaling incense, chewing gum that does not contain sugar is allowed. But injections, blood transfusions and various drops (except eye drops) interrupt fasting. Fat applied to the skin or lips can also break the fast.

What measures does the Muftiate of Turkmenistan take during the holy fast?

In Turkmenistan, where there are more than 300 mosques, religious institutions are put in order during the holy month. So mosques are bought with bottled water for fasting parishioners for evening prayer, the graves of saints are sprinkled with water, and local imams and hajjis are prepared for visiting services.

How to keep a fast for those who are engaged in heavy physical labor?

Special honor is enjoyed by those who are engaged in heavy and backbreaking physical labor, however, despite this, they observe the holy fast. A grave sin is recognized as one in which a person specifically burdens his work, knowing in advance about its unbearability, in order to break the fast. In general, fasting is undesirable for those who are not confident in their moral and physical strength.

Is it necessary to get up in the morning to start fasting?

The so—called "Suhur" - the morning meal, performed before sunrise, is not mandatory when fasting. In this case, it is necessary to express your intention with prayers in advance, during the iftar (evening meal).

Is it possible to taste food while cooking?

Women are allowed to taste food for salt, but at the same time it cannot be swallowed. There are also nuances here: a fasting woman cannot taste food if there is a person in the house who does not observe fasting, not counting children. Food is only tasted for salinity, so even significantly less than a spoonful of food will be enough for tasting.

Holy fasting is a special month that must be spent with pure thoughts and without malice in the soul. This is a month of reverence for God, an opportunity to realize and rethink the laws of religion.

ORIENT

Photo: ORIENT editorial office