Fasting, like prayer, is also an act of worship and is the fourth pillar of Islam. It is compulsory for all Muslims, both men and women; but pregnant women, the sick and travellers are exempted from fasting.
The Prophet (saw) said: “The one who hears the call to prayer on Friday and does not come to it, Allah then will put a seal on his heart and make his heart the heart of a hypocrite.” (Baihaqi).
Abu Hurairah reported, the Prophet (saw) asked: “Do you know the bankrupt is?” The companions replied:” The bankrupt among us is one who has neither money nor any property.” He said:” The real bankrupt of my ummah is he who comes on the day of Resurrection with prayer, fasting and charity, because he reviled others, brought false tales against others, unlawfully devoured the wealth of others, shed the blood of others and beat others – so his good deeds will be credited to the account of those (who suffered at his hands or from his tongue). If his good deeds fall short of what is needed to clear the account, their sins (those who suffered because of him) will be entered in his account, and he will be thrown in the hell fire).” (Muslim)