Ramadan

A Month of Self-Improvement

Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is a pillar of Islam and a practice that has
been observed by Muslims for centuries. This act of worship involves abstaining from
food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset. Fasting is not only about
food and drink, but it is also a powerful means of developing discipline, self-control,
and spiritual growth.

Muslims who observe Ramadan must resist the temptation to eat, drink, or engage in
other pleasures during daylight hours for an entire month. This requires a great deal
of self-control and discipline.

A Spiritual and Physical Journey

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is considered a way to
purify the body and soul. This can lead to greater discipline and self-control in other
areas, such as work, relationships, and personal habits. In fact, the Qur’an and Hadith,
the holy texts of Islam, provide numerous references to the importance of self-control
and discipline. For example, the verse about fasting directly implies that fasting is
meant to instil self-discipline: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it
was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa” (The Qur’an
2:183). The word Taqwa means God consciousness; both “discipline” or “self-control”
are embedded in the meaning of the word.

Fasting to Improve Mental and Physical Health

A great deal has been written about the mental and physical benefits of fasting. These
benefits include the elimination of harmful fatty substances from the blood, helping.
Ramadan provides an excellent beginning to “kick out” some bad habits, such as
smoking, harming others, etc. This can lead to improved decision-making, better time
management, and a more focused and productive approach to life. Ina a sense fasting
is an annual physical and mental overhaul of the body.
Social Element

Fasting promotes the spirit of unity and belonging within the Muslim community.
Nearly one Billion Muslims all over the World fast during the month of Ramadan
following the same rules and guidelines. All Muslims, male and female, rich and poor
from all ethnic backgrounds go through the same experience; no special privileges or
favours for any group or class.
Fasting promotes the spirit of charity and empathy towards the poor and needy. One
cannot fully appreciate suffering or hunger until he/she actually “experiences” or
“feels” them. Hence, Ramadhan is also known as the month of charity and generosity.

Muslims invite others to break the fast with them at the sunset and to gather for the
Qur’an study, prayer and visitation. This provides a better chance for socialisation in a
communal and spiritual atmosphere.

The Wisdom of Islamic Rituals and Their Benefits for Individuals

and Society

Fasting teaches Muslims to resist the basic temptation and desire to eat or drink during
the day, even when they are hungry or thirsty. This act of restraint helps them to
develop the ability to control their desires and impulses, which is a crucial aspect of
self-discipline and making life choices. Through fasting, Islam teaches Muslims to
regulate their behaviour and become more mindful of their actions. They become
more aware of their thoughts and feelings, and they learn to respond to them in a
measured and controlled way. This self-awareness and self-control are essential
qualities that can help individuals to make better choices in all areas of their lives and
has a positive impact on the larger society. Every act of worship in Islam is meant to
instil positive qualities at the individual and societal levels. Fasting is just one example
of the many benefits and wisdoms of Islamic rituals. We encourage you to learn more
about Islam and its beautiful teachings.