A month of fasting brings both challenge and rewards.
Ramadan has always been a month of joy when I was growing up, it is something that we look forward to. Ramadan, the ninth and most sacred month for Muslims and fasting in this blessed month is one of the five pillars of Islam.
Following are some reasons to fast:
Develop Character
Fasting is an institution for the improvement of moral and spiritual character of human being. The purpose of the fast is to help develop self-restraint, self-purification, God-consciousness, compassion, the spirit of caring and sharing, the love of humanity and the love of God.
Self Reflection
Ramadan gives us a break and provides us with a rare opportunity to think about our own selves, our future, and our families. It is a unique month of self-analysis, and of taking stock of one’s moral and spiritual ‘assets and liabilities’.
Cultivates Love
It cultivates in us the principle of sincere Love, because when we observe Fasting, we do it out of deep love for God. And a person, who loves God, truly is a person who knows what love is and why everyone on this Earth should be loved and treated justly, for the sake of God.
Elevates the Spirit
Fasting elevates the human spirit and increases our awareness of God. It strengthens our will-power as we learn to rise above our lower desires. The institution of fasting is both unique and a shared experience in human history.
Develops Clarity of Mind
With the clarity of mind and absence of distractions, also comes a greater focus. As students, the period of fasting, especially early during the day, serves as a tool to focus our minds on our academics.
Develops a Healthy Lifestyle
Fasting has numerous, scientifically proven, benefits for our physical health and mental well-being. The time, length and nature of the Islamic Fast all contribute to its overall positive effect. One of the medical benefits is a much-needed rest to the digestive system.
Moral Training
The month of Ramadan provides us with a sort of “Boot camp.” It is a month of intense moral training. Since we know that Fasting is a special duty prescribed by God, we learn that any sins may spoil our record of fasting with God, so we go through great lengths making sure we are on our best behavior.
Consciousness of Life & Death
It makes us realize the reality of life and death. Fasting makes us realize how dependent our lives are on things that we often take for granted, such as food and water. It makes us think about our dependence on God and God’s mercy and justice.
Connection to the Quran
Ramadan is a blessed month for a special reason: It is actually the month in which God first revealed His final message and guidance for mankind to our beloved Prophet Muhammad.
