What are the Pillars of Fasting in Ramadan? ═══════════════════════ The pillars of fasting are the elements that form the essence of fasting. It is the observance of these elements that makes one's fast acceptable. These pillars are: An-Niyyah (Intention) and Al-ImsΔk (Abstinence) 1. An-Niyyah (Intention): This pillar pervades all religious undertakings in Islam. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: All actions are but with intentions. Thus, Imam An-Nawawiy said in Rawdatul TΔlibΔ«n that fasting is not valid without Niyyah (intention) and its place is the heart (not the tongue). It is, however, important to note that the following conditions must be fulfilled for a Niyyah to be valid, for fasting in Ramadan: Al-IkhlΔs (Sincerity): This means that the intention for fasting must be to worship Allah, seek His pleasure, and earn His reward. Consequently, the fast of a Muslim is not valid if the intention is for dietary reason, weight control, loss of appetit