Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the most important acts of worship in Islam. It is the fourth pillar of Islam and holds a central place in the life of a believer. The significance of fasting is emphasized in both the Qur’an and the Sunnah (teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ). It serves not only as a physical act of abstaining from food and drink but also as a spiritual journey toward self-purification, taqwa (God-consciousness), and moral discipline.
1. Importance in the Light of the Qur’an
1.1 Obligation of Fasting
Allah says in Surah al-Baqarah (2:183):
“O you who have believed, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain taqwa.”
This verse clearly shows that fasting is a divine obligation upon the believers, and its main objective is to develop taqwa — a sense of awareness and fear of Allah in every action.
1.2 Connection with the Qur’an
In Surah al-Baqarah (2:185), Allah says:
“The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed — a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the criterion (between right and wrong).”
This highlights that Ramadan is not only a month of fasting but also a month of spiritual reflection and connection with the Qur’an.
1.3 Allah’s Nearness and Mercy
Immediately after the verses on fasting, Allah says in Surah al-Baqarah (2:186):
“And when My servants ask you about Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.”
This shows that Ramadan is a special time when Allah’s mercy is abundant, and prayers are more readily accepted.
2. Importance in the Light of Sunnah
2.1 Pillar of Islam
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Islam is built upon five things: the testimony that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; establishing prayer; paying zakah; fasting in Ramadan; and pilgrimage to the House (Ka’bah).”
— (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
2.2 Forgiveness of Sins
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever fasts in Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward (from Allah), all his previous sins will be forgiven.”
— (Sahih Bukhari)
2.3 Special Reward for Fasting
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Every action of the son of Adam is for him except fasting; it is for Me and I shall reward it.”
— (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
This hadith shows the unique value of fasting — it is a private act of worship between the servant and Allah, and only He knows its true reward.
2.4 Gates of Paradise
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.”
— (Sahih Bukhari)
3. Spiritual and Moral Benefits
- Fasting builds taqwa and helps control desires.
- It cleanses the soul and softens the heart.
- It encourages patience, humility, and sincerity.
- It trains the believer to stay away from sins such as lying, anger, and backbiting.
4. Social and Community Benefits
- Fasting promotes empathy for the poor and hungry.
- It encourages generosity, especially through zakat and sadaqah.
- It strengthens the bonds of community through collective worship like Taraweeh and iftar.
- It fosters discipline and time management.
Conclusion
Fasting in Ramadan is a comprehensive form of worship that benefits the individual spiritually, morally, and socially. It is not only about staying hungry and thirsty but about drawing closer to Allah, improving one’s character, and becoming a better human being. The Qur’an and Sunnah clearly show that Ramadan is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and guidance. Every Muslim should strive to make the most of this blessed month by increasing worship, reading the Qur’an, and seeking Allah’s pleasure.