Question: I have noticed many people fasting this year; however it is sad to see many conduct themselves as if they are not, what of them?

ANSWER: The month of Ramadan is to teach the soul to be more cautious. Hence, mazmumah (foul) properties should be avoided, whilst mahmudah (praiseworthy) properties should be practiced.
Those who are fasting should conduct themselves well by minding their mouth and tongue.

Good moral ethics for holding your tongue:

1. Do not speak in vain;

It is true that this is a difficult practice. There is a lot of time to rest and reflect during this holy month. During other times of the year we are very busy, but during Ramadan there is less activity;

Avoid small talks during the holy month. Those who don’t join in but merely listen and digest the information should refrain from doing so too.

2. If you are accused of something you didn’t do, stay calm and answer that you are fasting;

3. Do not make slanderous statements;

Making slanderous statements is a sin. Slander is not tolerated by Him. Remember that making such statements can null your fasting. All that work for nothing.

Though there are some ulama’s who opine that causing slander can null your fast, it has become part of the community we live in today and hard to stop.

4. Leave empty talks, arguments and other activities that do not have any benefit for your ‘worldly or after-life investments.

Empty talk is the “best” thing during fasting month. You have ample idle time, what was once your lunch hour between 1pm and 2pm, is now just for Zohor prayers and to hang out. This is the time many will have empty conversations.

Empty conversations are not really a problem but if it leads to talking about others, fighting, ampu sana ampu sini etc, it will become a sin.

When you talk of only good things it is a plus point in your books.

Rather than committing sins, is it not better to commit virtuous acts?