Fasting is one of the greatest acts of worship Muslims do every year during the month of Ramadan. It is a truly sincere act of worship that Allah Most High Himself will reward for –

All the actions of people are for them, except for fasting. Fasting is for Me and it is I who reward it.

Sahih al-Bukhari, 5927

In surah al-Baqarah, Allah Most High says,

Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the standard to distinguish between right and wrong. So whoever is present this month, let them fast. But whoever is ill or on a journey, then let them fast an equal number of days after Ramadan. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful.

Quran - 2:185

(interpretation of the meaning)

The primary reason why Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan is clear from the verse:

O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful [of Allah].

Quran - 2:183

(interpretation of the meaning)

Additionally, the virtues of the fast are numerous, such as the fact that:

1. It is an expiation for one's sins and wrongs.
2. It is a means of breaking impermissible desires.
3. It facilitates acts of devotion.

Fasting poses many challenges for people, from hunger and thirst to disrupted sleep patterns and more. Each is part of the struggles that were made obligatory on us so we may learn, develop, and grow through them. These difficulties do not go unnoticed by Allah, and we are told to be actively aware of them so we can expect a generous reward for them from Him. This is understood from the words of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him):

Whoever fasts [throughout] Ramadan out of faith (iman) and an expectation of a reward (ihtisab), all his past sins will be forgiven.

Sahih al-Bukhari, 37

Source: seekersguidance.org · seekersguidance.org · seekersguidance.org