The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions (2168 page)

awm
or
iy
m
.

Fasting, the fourth
pillar of Islam
. Fasting is obligatory on Muslims, during the whole month of
Rama
n
, and at other times in compensation for days then missed; it can also be practised in fulfilment of a personal vow, or as a pious action.
awm must be preceded by the
niy(y)a
, ‘intention’.
During Rama
n, any adult Muslim of sound mind and in good health must abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations during daylight hours, which are estimated as beginning when ‘the white thread becomes distinct to you from the black thread’ at dawn (Qur’
n 2. 187). It is customary, and recommended, for the Muslim to have a final meal (
sa
r
) shortly before daybreak; in the evening the first food (
fu
r
) should be of water or dates, with a large meal following.

 
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