Ramadan: The spiritual significance of fasting

Many question the purpose of Ramadan and fasting, and the reasoning is quite clear in Islam. Ramadan fasting is more than just refraining from consuming food and drink; rather, it is a transformative journey towards attaining Taqwa (God-consciousness). As stated in the Holy Quran, “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous” (Quran 2:183). This verse emphasizes that fasting is a means of spiritual purification and moral elevation. By refraining from worldly desires, Muslims aim to strengthen their relationship with Allah and increase their awareness of His presence in their lives.

Virtues of self-discipline

Fasting instills a sense of self-discipline and control over one’s desires, which are essential virtues in Islam. By refraining from food, drink and other physical comforts during daylight hours, Muslims learn to harness their inner strength and resist temptation. This practice of self-discipline extends beyond abstaining from food; it encompasses refraining from negative behaviors such as gossip, anger, and dishonesty, in addition to encouraging self-control too. Through fasting, individuals cultivate a heightened awareness of their actions and strive to align them with the teachings of Islam.

Moreover, fasting creates a profound sense of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. As we experience hunger and thirst, we become acutely aware of the privileges we often take for granted, such as access to food, clean water, and shelter. The act of fasting reminds us of the struggles and challenges of the less fortunate and encourages us to share our blessings with those in need. In the words of Imam Ali, “Blessed is he whose own faults preoccupy him from noticing the faults of others and whose own hunger preoccupies him from envying the plenty of others.”