Muslims prepare for month of fasting and spiritual reformation

Ramadan Mubarak (Happy Ramadan)!

As the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches on March 23, Muslims worldwide begin preparations for a month of fasting and spiritual reformation. While the act of fasting may seem like a novel idea, it may be surprising for many to know that different forms of fasting have existed for centuries across many religions.

To name a few, there is Yom Kippur in Judaism, the practice of Upavasa in Hinduism, the period of Lent before Easter and Advent before Christmas in Christianity, and regular fasting among Buddhist monks and nuns.

The Holy Quran, which is the holy book that all Muslims follow, prescribes fasting during the month of Ramadan as obligatory for every Muslim, stating, "O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous." (Chapter 2, Verse 183). 

Spiritual Benefits

Fasting during the month of Ramadan for Muslims provides an opportunity to cleanse oneself spiritually and engage in Remembrance of God and prayer. 

Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be on him), the Promised Messiah and founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community stated, "Fasting is not merely staying hungry and thirsty; rather its reality and its impact can only be gained through experience...the significance of fasting is this alone that man gives up one kind of sustenance which only nourishes the body and attains the other kind of sustenance which is a source of comfort and gratification for the soul."

Nearness to God. Charity.

Not only does Ramadan focus on the fast alone, but is also a great practice to attain the nearness to God, by the means of ridding oneself of personal evils. During the fast, there is not only the prohibition of food and drink but also a restriction on fighting/arguing, smoking, gossiping, sexual relations, and any activities deemed harmful to others. It is instead encouraged to immerse oneself in worship of God and the care for His subjects by giving alms and charity to the less fortunate, and polishing oneself into an exemplary member of society. 

Physical Benefits

Nowadays, there is a rise in the popularity of the trend of "intermittent fasting" as people have become more aware of the physical benefits of spacing out their mealtimes. Scientific studies show that the practice of fasting enables a wide array of health benefits including blood sugar management, support of brain function, delay of aging, disease prevention, support of growth and metabolism, and help with weight loss.

Removal of Addictions and Bad Habits

Fasting enables the opportunity to remove temptations leading to bad habits or addictions. Self-reflection and assessment is encouraged and so, during Ramadan, many delve into a conscious effort to remove oneself from their weaknesses and are able to pave the way for progress during the course of the month. 

Family and Community Ties 

Often a time, opening the fast is a family or community affair in which people gather for a meal, promoting a sense of brotherhood. All people regardless of age, race, or other differences, join each other to collectively open their fast. Therefore, fasting in Islam is intended to produce a beautiful and spiritual society.

May God Almighty enable everyone to benefit spiritually during the month of Ramadan.

Ameen!