Fasting is one of the most important Islamic practices. It is the fourth pillar of Islam and is observed throughout Ramdan. During the whole month, believers focus on obtaining taqwa by refraining from eating, drinking, physical intimacy, and all kinds of immoral activities. From dawn (Fajr) to dusk (Maghrib), believers try to practice Islam’s moral and spiritual template Making donations in Ramdan is a common practice. While donating your Zakat make sure that it goes to eligible recipients of Zakat as defined by the Sharia law. In this article, we will discuss why Muslims fast during Ramdan and what they should do to maximize their spiritual rewards during Ramadan.
Taqwa is the goal of Ramadan
The Quran clearly defines and informs the believers about the purpose of fasting during Ramadan.
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous –“ (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
The primary goal of fasting is to attain taqwa, righteousness driven by knowing and acknowledging Allah’s (SWT) presence. Striving for taqwa is an important duty for Muslims, and the Quran repeatedly reminds us of this.
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah -” (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:2)
In another verse, believers are reminded of the importance of Taqwa:
“And enjoin prayer upon your family [and people] and be steadfast therein. We ask you not for provision; We provide for you, and the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness.” (Surat Ţāhā, 20: 132)
The endeavor for constant improvement and taqwa is a desirable trait in believers.
The Quran tells the believers:
“Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.” (Surat Al-Ĥujurāt, 49:13)
The following Hadith urges believers to keep striving for taqwa while they fast.
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Whoever does not give up evil and ignorant speech, and acting in accordance with that, Allah has no need of his giving up his food and drink.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 1689)
Fasting Leads to Self-Discipline
Fasting isn’t only about abstinence. It is a practice meant to impact the believers’ long-term behavior, leading to immaculate self-discipline. The purpose of fasting is to internalize the ethical standards taught by Islam. In the following Hadith, believers are further asked to remain patient while fasting:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “When any one of you is observing Saum (fasting) on a day, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise the voice; and if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: ‘I am observing fast.”‘ [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. (Riyad as-Salihin, 1240)
Some people tend to lose their temper and get angry while fasting. The Hadith forbids Muslims from losing control even if they are offended. Therefore, one of the prime objectives of fasting is to cleanse human behavior by observing the highest ethical standards. For all believers, obeying Allah (SWT) is the central motive of their lives, and Ramadan provides a great opportunity for them to refocus on this motive.
The following Hadith about donating in Ramadan should also motivate believers to most charitable:
Anas narrated that: the Prophet was asked which fast was most virtuous after Ramadan? He said: “Sha’ban in honor of Ramadan” He said: “Which charity is best?” He (pbuh) said: “Charity in Ramadan.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 663)
A Call For Redemption
For believers, mortal life is a trial, and the real focus always remains on the afterlife. This redemption and safety from hell is a goal that believers should strive to achieve. Fasting leads to redemption. The theme of the first stage of Ramdan is mercy, which is followed by the second Ashra’s theme of forgiveness. The last Ashra offers safety from hell. Thus, fasting in all three Ashras with devotion and sincerity leads to success in the afterlife.
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: “When it is the month of Ramadan, the gates of mercy are opened, and the gates of Hell are locked and the devils are chained.” (Sahih Muslim, 1079b)
Another Hadith confirms the value of fasting with sincere faith and hope:
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 38)
Important Supplication for Ramadan
Supplication, or Dua, is a much-encouraged practice in Islam. Allah (SWT) encourages believers to supplicate.
In the Quran, Allah (SWT) tells us:
“And when My servants ask you, [O Muhammad], concerning Me – indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me [by obedience] and believe in Me that they may be [rightly] guided” (Surat Al-Baqarah 2:186)
Following are some supplications for Ramadan:
Supplication for fasting in Ramadan:
The following supplication is for intending to keep fast during Ramadan. Note that it isn’t based on verses from the Quran or the Hadith.
وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ
“I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan”
The following is the supplication for breaking fast at Iftar, during Ramadan:
ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ
“The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.” (Abu Dawud 2/306)
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Conclusion:
Fasting is the fourth pillar of Islam and an obligatory practice for Muslims. Fasting promises several physical and spiritual advantages. Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib), refraining from goods, drinks, physical intimacy, and other unethical practices. Fasting leads to the attainment of taqwa. By striving to achieve taqwa, believers deepen their connection with Allah (SWT), transform their behavior, and focus on ethical living. The month becomes an opportunity for redemption, mercy, and forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of sincere intention and prayer. Through fasting, praying, and supplications, believers can enhance their spirituality and cultivate a lasting commitment to righteousness. While striving for Taqwa, consider the pain of those who cannot afford quality healthcare. Donate to Transparent Hands.