Ramadan in depth

Ramadan should be seen as a landmark in a Muslim’s life. It is not just about abstaining from acts that nullify the Fast. Real fasting should bring about a real inner change in the Muslim individual and in Muslim community at large. Fasting is a universal custom and is known in all the religions of the world, with some differences. The Islamic Fast is not about a mere starvation or self-denial; rather it is an act of worship and obedience to God, thanksgiving, forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination. This article will attempt to explore some of the hidden aspects Muslims should heed to when they observe fasting.

First, Fasting in Ramadan creates a social bond and develops a profound spirit of social belonging and brotherhood among Muslims irrespective of their race, color or culture. Millions of Muslims observe the same duty in the same manner and at the same time for one ultimate motive, which is seeking the reward from Allah. It is the best practice to represent the values of for unity, brotherhood and equality. No philosophy or social system has been able to achieve social solidarity in practical terms as Islam has been able to do.

When we fast we feel the pains of hunger that millions of people suffer daily and learn to endure it patiently. The experience teaches how to be more sensitive and sympathize with the oppressed and needy around the world and respond to their needs. True Muslims feel their responsibility towards the poor, the sick, and the needy and stop to ponder how fortunate they are. It is the month where the food, sustenance and the earnings of a believing Muslim increases and they are blessed,” says the Final Prophet of God, Muhammad (PBUH), a man who was known for his noble humanitarian causes, for social justice, and for being the first to respond to other’s needs, despite the fact that he himself lived a very simple and humble life. Second, fasting is a real reformulation of the Muslim character on the moral and spiritual levels to acquire and develop the values of self-restraint, God-consciousness and compassion. One of the most crucial personal qualities psychologists have always pointed to as a key to personal change is self-restraint. Fasting is really the best practical way to help develop self-restraint.

Muslims are trained for a whole month to change their daily habits and to suppress their most inner whims and desires for the sake of Allah. Muslims are taught to desert their most basic physiological needs out of sincere Love, because when we observe Fasting, we do it out of deep love for God. And a person, who loves God, truly is a person who knows what love is and why everyone on this Earth should be loved and treated justly, for the sake of God. Furthermore, Muslims can develop self-restraint into building a strong will. Fasting help Muslims shake off the shackles of sins and bad habits that imprison their souls and bodies over the year. Many people believe that bad habits are inherent traits they cannot escape and they won’t be able to change. Building a firm will is an essential factor to overcome bad habits and change your course. Muslims are trained to strengthen his will by observing the limits of his Lord in every aspect , to resign to His judgment in everything, and to carry out His commands and laws in everything. The lessons of Ramadan are numerous and varied and touch every sphere of the life of individuals and society.