Ramadhan Mubarak! Nomez's contributions in this thread are legendary haha A simple explanation of why we fast; "One must fast from an hour before daybreak until sunset. Since this is the clear direction of the Qurâ??an, this is how most Muslims observe the 30 days of Ramadan. Usually Muslims who are fasting in observance of Ramadan take a light meal prior to daylight. In the evening they eat again. Part of this ritual fasting is to help take the focus on worldly things so the mind and heart are redirected toward spiritual things. The month of Ramadan marks a time of spiritual renewal and commitment toward becoming a better follower of oneâ??s religion. By fasting, and as well abstaining from sexual practice during the day the focus is on renewing oneâ??s commitment to God and to Islam." Also Socks, there are some medicinal benefits "On the physical level, some chemicals in the brain that transmit messages and create feelings, called neurotransmitters, are affected by fasting. Fasting encourages the endorphin neurotransmitter system, related to the feeling of well-being and euphoria, to produce more endorphins and, in fact, makes us â??feelâ? better. This is similar to the effect of exercise (but without the physical work). It has also been noted by medical experts that fasting improves the physical health in numerous ways. For example, during the fast the body uses up stored cholesterol (fat) that is often deposited in the blood system, as well as in other fatty areas of the body. Thus, it helps to keep the body firm and minimizes the danger of heart attacks. "