Fasting is the abstention from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset, with the intention of worshiping Allah. It is a form of worship mandated by Allah for Muslims, serving to purify and nurture the soul.

Virtues of the Month of Ramadan

The Month of the Quran’s Revelation:

Allah says:

“The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 185).

In this blessed month, Allah revealed the Quran, which serves as guidance and mercy for all of humanity.

Multiplication of Rewards:

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward will have his past sins forgiven.” (Agreed upon).

This hadith illustrates that fasting during the month of Ramadan with sincerity and seeking Allah’s reward leads to the forgiveness of past sins.

The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr):

Laylat al-Qadr is one of the nights in Ramadan and is better than a thousand months. Allah says:

“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Surah Al-Qadr: 3).

Worship and deeds performed on this night are equivalent to those performed over more than eighty-three years.

Liberation from the Fire:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “And Allah has people He redeems from the Fire, and this happens every night.” (Narrated by Al-Tirmidhi).

Every night of Ramadan, Allah frees individuals from Hellfire, a tremendous blessing that warrants striving and diligence in worship.

Chaining of the Devils:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Agreed upon).

This hadith indicates that Ramadan is a great opportunity for Muslims to repent and turn back to Allah, as the gates of Hell are closed and the gates of Paradise are opened.

Benefits of Fasting

Strengthening Willpower and Patience:

Fasting teaches Muslims patience and control over desires, enhancing their willpower and endurance.

Achieving Taqwa (Piety):

• Allah says: “Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183).

The goal of fasting is to achieve piety and draw closer to Allah.

Purification and Refinement of the Soul:

Fasting helps purify the soul from sins and impurities, drawing one closer to Allah through acts of obedience.

Social Solidarity:

During Ramadan, Muslims are keen to help the poor and needy, experiencing their hardships through fasting.

Health Benefits:

Fasting improves overall health, regulating digestion and aiding in detoxification.

How to Benefit from the Month of Ramadan

Sincerity in Worship:

Muslims should be sincere in their intention to fast and worship solely for the sake of Allah, seeking His pleasure.

Increase in Acts of Worship:

It is recommended to increase prayer, Quran recitation, supplication, and charity during this blessed month.

Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness:

Ramadan is an opportunity for repentance and returning to Allah, seeking forgiveness for sins and transgressions.