Yes, Shia Muslims do observe Roza (fasting) during the holy month of Ramadan.
Ramadan is a crucial pillar of Islam, and both Shia and Sunni Muslims observe it with similar practices. Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for all adult, healthy Shia Muslims, just as it is for Sunni Muslims.
Key Aspects of Roza for Shia Muslims:
- Duration: Shia Muslims fast for the entire month of Ramadan, from dawn to sunset.
- Intention: They begin their fast with the intention of observing Roza for Allah's sake.
- Prayers: Shia Muslims perform five daily prayers during Ramadan, including the special Taraweeh prayers.
- Iftar: They break their fast at sunset with a light meal, typically dates and water, followed by a larger meal later in the evening.
- Suhur: Shia Muslims eat a pre-dawn meal called Suhur before the start of the fast.
Differences in Observance:
While Shia and Sunni Muslims share the core principles of Roza, there are some minor differences in practice, such as:
- The start and end of Ramadan: The exact dates of Ramadan can differ slightly between Shia and Sunni Muslims due to different methods of sighting the moon.
- Specific rituals: Shia Muslims may observe additional rituals during Ramadan, such as reciting specific prayers or engaging in acts of charity.
Conclusion:
Shia Muslims observe Roza during Ramadan, adhering to the same fundamental principles as their Sunni counterparts.
