Virtues of Fasting

Muslims are a blessed nation. Their Prophet is most beloved to Allah Almighty; their religion is dearest to Allah SWT, their holy book is superior to any other scripture and the month in which the book is sent is the best of all. Ramadan is a celebration of Quran and fasting is the vital element of this month. Allah swt prescribed fasting as the third pillar of Islam and made it obligatory on every Muslim.

Ramadan is the month of peace and tranquility. There is no other month in which more angels make their way to earth as compared to this holy month. The routine of sahoor, iftaar and Taraweeh has magnanimous physical and spiritual benefits. The day starts with sehri which showers prosperity and bliss. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad PBUH said:

“Have sahoor (the meal to be taken before dawn) as it brings prosperity” –Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi

Allah SWT blesses the ones that eat sahoor with angels and put barakah in their affairs.

Taraveeh- the night prayer is most emphasized custom of Islam. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad PBUH and his companions offered and liked Taraweeh prayers. Other than being a beneficial physical activity after iftaar, this night prayer is a source of continuous reward from Allah Almighty.

Narrated by Abu Hurayrah RZ, Allah’s Apostle PBUH said; “the past sins would be forgiven of those who offer nafl and sunnah regularly in the month of Ramadan to endorse his belief and obtain rewards from Allah.”

The last nights of Ramadan hold special significance especially the Night of Power also known as Shab-e-Qadar is the best of nights. Worshipping and adoration during this one night are better than performing worship in thousands of night. Allah SWT states the importance of this night in following words;

Quran and Sunnah on Fasting

Fasting is obligatory on every sane and adult Muslim. If one is unable to make fast due to journey or illness, he must make up for those days. Allah swt orders his slaves to fast in following verses of Quran, Surah al Baqarah, ayah 183,184,185;

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad PBUH gave glad tidings to the believer who fasts during Ramadan only to please Allah AWT; as Abu Hurayrah RZ related that the Prophet Muhammed PBUH stated; “whoever observe fasting during Ramadan with utter faith, seeking his reward from Allah SWT, his past sins would be forgiven. And who spends the night of Layla tul Qadr in offering prayers with faith and ask forgiveness from Allah SWT, his past sins would be forgiven.” –Bukhari, Muslim.

Benefits of Fasting

Fasting is an opportunity to gain self-control and self-discipline. The perspective of a believer totally changes, and he starts evaluating small things like care for poor and needy. The encouragement to help the ones in need gets readily during these 30 days. You get the potential to forgive others and learn from your own mistakes. Fasting also helps to control anger. You start making healthier choices and quite awful habits. Ramadan is the time of sharing happiness and spreading harmony in masses.

Ramadan is the month of self-analysis. The mind and soul get refurbished, and the believer attains the closeness of Almighty Allah. May Allah make out intentions pure and accept our efforts towards the righteous path, Ameen.