Fasting: A Tradition of Major Religions

IAIS Bulletin No. 61 March.–April. 2021

Ramadhan al-Kareem! As we enter one of the most important months in the Islamic calendar, Muslims all over the world begin their annual religious obligation of abstaining from food, drink, and sexual intercourse from dawn to dusk for a whole month.

Fasting is viewed as a method to control one’s desires so as to have a greater focus on devoting oneself to God. Th e Qur’an reads: “Fasting is prescribed on you as it was prescribed on those before you, that you may learn piety and righteousness.” (2:183).

In Islam, fasting is a gateway to the spiritual world and a means to gain closeness to God. Fasting allows us the opportunity to glorify Allah SWT, and to thank Him for His countless favours. As we go along with our modern lives, it is often the case that we take His many favours for granted. Fasting is an important ritual because while performing it, Muslims simultaneously attempt to perfect their manners according to the Islamic code as well as keeping their behaviour and ego in check. Read more on: issue61.pdf (iais.org.my)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.