Ramadan 2025: What Are the Fasting Restrictions on Cigarettes, Sex, Water, and More?

Ramadan is a significant month for Muslims around the world, dedicated to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. In 2025, Ramadan is set to begin on March 1st and end on either March 30th or 31st. During this sacred period, Muslims are encouraged to follow a set of rules and restrictions while fasting. These guidelines are meant to promote self-discipline, mindfulness, and devotion to Allah. Below, we will explore the key prohibitions during Ramadan, including what is allowed and what is forbidden during the fasting hours.

The Essential Rules of Fasting During Ramadan

The Essential Rules of Fasting During Ramadan

1. No Eating or Drinking During the Day: The most well-known rule of Ramadan fasting is the prohibition of eating and drinking from dawn until sunset. However, it’s important to note that fasting does not begin at sunrise, as commonly believed, but at dawn, which can differ by an hour depending on the location.

It is permissible to swallow saliva, contrary to some misconceptions that it is a sin. Additionally, rinsing your mouth is allowed, as long as you do not swallow the water. This applies to activities like brushing teeth, showering, or swimming—provided no water is ingested.

2. No Sexual Relations During the Day: Sexual relations during the daylight hours of Ramadan are considered a major sin and are strictly forbidden before sunset. If this rule is violated, the individual must not only fast an additional day but also atone for their actions. Historically, atonement involved freeing a slave, fasting for two consecutive months, or feeding 60 poor individuals.

3. No Smoking or Alcohol Consumption: Smoking is strictly prohibited during Ramadan, and the Quran generally forbids smoking even outside of the fasting period. Likewise, alcohol and drugs are also prohibited. The only exceptions where alcohol might be tolerated are situations of ignorance, forgetfulness, or coercion.

Certain habits, like biting nails, are allowed, as long as it does not result in the ingestion of foreign substances.

4. No Obscene Speech: Ramadan is a time for Muslims to embody their best selves. This includes refraining from insults, lies, or any criminal behavior, whether minor or major. Engaging in such actions can invalidate a day of fasting.

5. No Makeup: Makeup is generally discouraged during Ramadan, although it may be accepted in certain Muslim countries. Muslims who are fasting can wear perfume, but it is preferable that the fragrance does not contain alcohol. While makeup like powders and creams doesn’t invalidate fasting, it is still strongly advised against. The use of kohl, however, is permissible according to some religious guidelines.

Fasting is an Obligation with Some Exceptions Fasting is obligatory for all Muslims who have reached puberty and are in good health. However, there are exceptions for individuals who are sick, pregnant or nursing women, and those who are menstruating. These individuals are not required to fast, but they may be encouraged to make up for the fast at a later time if they are able.

Conclusion

Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion. The rules and restrictions during this holy month are designed to help Muslims grow closer to Allah and to practice patience, empathy, and mindfulness. While fasting can be a challenging experience, it is also an opportunity for believers to demonstrate their faith and commitment to their religious practices.