Welcoming Ramadan: The True Spirit of Fasting

Fasting embodies patience, self-discipline, sacrifice, compassion, and kindness towards others. It is regarded as an exemplary means of self-purification and attaining closeness to Allah.

Islam, being a natural religion, prescribes comprehensive acts of worship that enable individuals to devote every aspect of their lives to the worship of Allah. Whether it is prayer, charity, jihad, pilgrimage, or fasting in the holy month of Ramadan, each practice manifests these spiritual qualities.

Muslims eagerly await the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan, preparing for it from the preceding month of Sha’ban. Ramadan is a month of mercy, blessings, and forgiveness—a period of earning rewards and seeking absolution from sins. It presents a great opportunity to draw closer to the Creator, with increased chances of attaining His pleasure and the glad tidings of paradise.

Imagine the joy and excitement when an esteemed guest is expected at your home. You prepare thoroughly—cleaning the house, decorating it beautifully, dressing in fine clothes, and creating an atmosphere of happiness. Similarly, when the honoured guest of Ramadan arrives, its preparation should be even more profound.

The best way to welcome Ramadan is by expressing gratitude to Allah for granting us this blessed month. One should make a sincere intention that fasting is solely for seeking Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would recite the following supplication upon sighting the crescent moon of Ramadan:
اللّٰہُمَّ أَہِلَّہُ عَلَیْنَا بِالْأَمْنِ وَالْإِیمَانِ،وَالسَّلَامَۃِ وَالْإِسْلَامِ،رَبِّیْ وَرَبُّکَ اللّٰہُ
“O Allah, let this moon appear over us with security, faith, peace, and Islam. My Lord and your Lord is Allah.” (Tirmidhi)

رَمَضَانُ ٱلَّذِیٓ أُنزِلَ فِیهِ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانُ هُدࣰى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَیِّنَـٰتࣲ مِّنَ ٱلۡهُدَىٰ وَٱلۡفُرۡقَانِۚ
The Quran states: “The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 185)

This verse links the greatness of Ramadan with the revelation of the Quran. Therefore, welcoming Ramadan should involve strengthening one’s connection with the Quran through recitation and contemplation. The Prophet (peace be upon him) would intensify his acts of worship even before Ramadan. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) observed more voluntary fasts in Sha’ban than in any other month. (Bukhari) This highlights the importance of preparing for Ramadan.

Towards the end of Sha’ban, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would remind his companions about the significance and grandeur of Ramadan so they could appreciate its value and fulfil its obligations accordingly. Ramadan is essentially a month of training—teaching self-restraint, understanding the suffering of the hungry, and enduring hardships. It is a period dedicated to worship, remembrance of Allah, and spiritual reflection. Fasting and the night prayers (Taraweeh) form the curriculum of this sacred training. Allah states in the Quran:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ
O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous. (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183)

The purpose of fasting is self-discipline—nurturing the ability to restrain oneself from sin and develop piety. Those who truly embrace this spiritual training find it easier to maintain acts of worship and abstain from sins throughout the rest of the year.

The essence of fasting is to cultivate piety, discipline, and self-purification. Through fasting and acts of devotion in Ramadan, believers strive to attain Allah’s pleasure. True love for the Prophet (peace be upon him) is expressed through adherence to his teachings and seeking purification of the soul, enabling one to spend the remainder of life in obedience to Allah.

Every act of worship in Islam reflects a specific spiritual emotion. Prayer signifies reverence, charity symbolises compassion, jihad demonstrates righteous indignation, and pilgrimage embodies submission. However, fasting stands out as an expression of love for Allah. Unlike other worships, fasting is an invisible act—no one can ascertain if a person is fasting except for the one observing it and Allah, for whom it is being observed. Hence, fasting is a sincere and hidden offering from a devoted servant to their Lord.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that Allah has promised an unparalleled reward for those who fast: “Fasting is for Me, and I shall personally grant its reward.”

When Allah Himself becomes the reward for an act, its significance is beyond human comprehension. Fasting is a selfless gift presented by the servant to their Lord, for which Allah has announced immense rewards.

Ramadan possesses numerous virtues, among which the most distinguished is that the Quran was revealed in this month. In fact, Ramadan is the only month explicitly mentioned in the Quran by name. This highlights the deep connection between the Quran and Ramadan. A remarkable aspect of this connection is the increase in Quranic recitation during this blessed month. The initial revelation of the Quran began in Ramadan, specifically on the Night of Decree (Laylatul Qadr), when it was transferred from the Preserved Tablet (Al-Loh Al-Mahfuz) to the lowest heaven before being gradually revealed to the Prophet (peace be upon him) over twenty-three years through Angel Jibreel.

Thus, Ramadan is not merely a month of fasting; it is an opportunity to rejuvenate one’s faith, strengthen their relationship with Allah, and embody the true spirit of devotion and self-discipline.

Indeed, the deep connection between the Holy Quran and the blessed month of Ramadan is well established, highlighting the immense virtue of this sacred month. Both fasting and the Quran serve as intercessors, advocating for believers on the Day of Judgment. According to Abdullah bin Umar (RA), the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) stated that both fasting, and the Quran will intercede for the servant. Fasting will plead, “O my Lord! I kept him from eating and fulfilling his desires during the day, so accept my intercession on his behalf.” The Quran will say, “O my Lord! I kept him awake at night, so accept my intercession on his behalf.” Their intercessions will be accepted.

The Prophet (PBUH) also declared, “Ramadan has arrived, a month of blessings. Allah has made its fasting obligatory upon you. During this month, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are shut, and the rebellious devils are chained. In it, there is a night that is better than a thousand months. Whoever is deprived of its blessings is truly deprived of all goodness.”

In a narration from Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Every good deed of man is multiplied ten to seven hundred times, but fasting is for Me, and I will reward it Myself because the servant abstains from his desires and food for My sake.”

“For the fasting person, there are two moments of joy: one when breaking the fast and the other when meeting his Lord. The breath of a fasting person is purer to Allah than the fragrance of musk. Fasting is a shield; thus, when any of you fasts, he should neither indulge in foul speech nor raise his voice in anger. If someone insults him or seeks to fight, he should simply say, ‘I am fasting.”

The special act of worship during this sacred month is fasting, the purpose of which is self-purification—cleansing the soul from sins and attaining piety. In other words, it is a means to refrain from wrongdoing and to develop an inclination toward good deeds. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever fasts in Ramadan with faith and accountability, and whoever stands in prayer at night with faith and accountability, Allah will forgive all his past sins.”

To fully benefit from Ramadan, it is essential to observe its etiquette. Since the Quran was revealed during this month, its recitation should be increased, and efforts should be made to understand its translation to comprehend what Allah expects from us.

Allah says in the Quran,
شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِي أُنزِلَ فِيهِ الْقُرْآنُ هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَاتٍ مِّنَ الْهُدَىٰ وَالْفُرْقَانِ
“The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed as a guidance for mankind, with clear proofs of guidance and criterion (between right and wrong).” (Al-Baqarah: 185).

Ramadan is a month of forgiveness, so seeking Allah’s pardon abundantly is necessary. In addition to obligatory acts of worship, voluntary acts should also be performed.

The purpose of fasting is to attain piety. It is essential to avoid lying, backbiting, jealousy, and other sins. Engaging in prescribed supplications (duas) is highly recommended. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “When Ramadan arrives, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Bukhari, Muslim).

The arrival of Ramadan should be welcomed with devotion, prayers, repentance, and sincerity of intention. Apart from the spiritual benefits of fasting, scientific studies have also highlighted its numerous physical, mental, and cardiac health advantages. Fasting is not only a religious obligation but also a natural remedy that modern science acknowledges. Alongside its endless spiritual and eternal benefits, fourteen centuries later, science has come to recognize the remarkable advantages of fasting.

One of the greatest physical benefits of fasting is “detoxification.” During fasting, harmful toxins in the body are eliminated, benefiting liver and kidney health. Fasting helps regulate calorie intake, maintaining a balanced weight. It enhances brain function by improving neuron activity and increasing “neurogenesis.” It boosts the levels of “serotonin” and “endorphins,” which enhance mood, reducing depression and stress. The production of “neuroplasticity” increases during fasting, aiding brain cell repair and improving memory.

Fasting allows the digestive system to rest and improves the “gastrointestinal system,” positively affecting stomach and liver health. It strengthens the immune system, improving blood pressure and sugar levels. Studies indicate that fasting increases insulin sensitivity, keeping blood sugar levels in check. Lower cholesterol levels reduce the risk of heart disease. Science suggests that intermittent fasting extends lifespan, and one of its most vital benefits is that it accelerates “autophagy,” a process in which the body repairs aging cells, thereby promoting cardiac health.

Thus, fasting is not only an act of worship that brings a believer closer to Allah, but it also offers immense spiritual and physical benefits, purifying the body, mind, and soul. It is a blessing that should be embraced with gratitude, sincerity, and a commitment to self-improvement.

The Scientific and Spiritual Benefits of Fasting in Ramadan
According to a study conducted by the University of Southern California (2014), fasting for three consecutive days stimulates the production of new white blood cells, significantly boosting the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Additionally, fasting enhances insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of diabetes. Research suggests that after 12 to 24 hours of fasting, the body switches from burning glycogen to burning fat for energy. A 2019 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that fasting helps regulate calorie intake, leading to effective weight management. Furthermore, fasting has been shown to combat obesity and metabolic syndrome while lowering cortisol levels, thereby promoting mental well-being.

Spiritual Purification Before Ramadan
Before the arrival of Ramadan, it is crucial to engage in sincere repentance (Tawbah) and seeking forgiveness (Istighfar), purifying both the heart and soul. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and self-accountability will have their past sins forgiven (Bukhari).

Ramadan is also a time of charity and generosity. Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was at his most generous during Ramadan (Bukhari). Therefore, it is advisable to plan ahead and set aside funds to support the poor and needy.

Embracing Ramadan with Devotion
Ramadan should be welcomed with prayers, worship, and generosity. It is a time for spiritual purification and strengthening our connection with the Qur’an. Fasting is not only a Sunnah but is also acknowledged by modern science for its numerous health benefits. It enhances physical health, cognitive abilities, and even longevity. Observing and respecting the sanctity of this holy month is a collective and individual responsibility for all Muslims.

Interestingly, just as the Qur’an was revealed in the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr) in Ramadan, Pakistan also came into existence during the same sacred night, which is nothing short of a divine miracle. This serves as a reminder for Pakistanis to express gratitude for this divine blessing during their prayers in Ramadan.

The Harsh Reality of Price Inflation
However, as Ramadan approaches, we witness how unscrupulous traders hoard essential goods, creating artificial shortages and inflating prices, exploiting the masses. Sadly, instead of taking strict action, the government appears to surrender to these profiteers. It is imperative to clamp down on these hoarders and curb inflation, providing relief to struggling citizens.
I cannot help but feel that while hoarders in other parts of the world may end up in hell, Pakistani hoarders will likely be seen performing Umrah next month.

In contrast, major supermarkets in the UK significantly reduce the prices of essential food items during Ramadan as a goodwill gesture. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, people look helplessly towards the sky, praying for a saviour to rescue them from corruption and exploitation.

May Allah enable us to truly benefit from the blessings and mercy of Ramadan. May He forgive our shortcomings and grant us the strength to uphold the sanctity of this holy month. Ameen!

Wishing all my readers a blessed Ramadan!