Message #21 December, 2000
Beneficiaries of Fasting in Islam
Praise belongs to The Almighty Lord who guided us to His praise and placed us among the people of praise, that we might be among the thankful for His beneficence, and that He might recompense us for that with the recompense of the good-doers.
Mubarak Alikum Month of Ramadan & Eid Mubarak
And the people
all around the world happiness and peace on these joyous and Holly Occasions
There are many benefits of fasting. Several questions arise about this act of worshipping The Almighty Lord of the World. What is fasting? Why do Muslims fast? Does the name of the month of Ramadan have any meaning? Was fasting ordained before Islam? How did they before Islam fast? What are the benefits of fasting? Are there any social benefits? Does fasting continue to benefit Muslims after their completion of their fasting? Does fasting achieve solidarity with the needy in the lands of starvation and suffering? How much food should a Muslim have when breaking the fast or enjoining it? What do the Glorious Qur’an and Hadith say about any kind of waste? When the Almighty Lord gives a Muslim His gift of substance is it for himself/herself or to share it with others? What is the least a Muslim can do toward mankind? What is the importance of reciting the Glorious Qur'an during the month of Ramadan? Why are supplication (Dua’as) so important in the month of Ramadan? What is Eid? What rewards are reserved for Muslim who obey their Lord for during the month of Ramadan? What is the punishment for Muslims who do not fast without a legitimate excuse? Are there any health benefits for Muslims in fasting? Before answering these questions, we should acknowledge that The Almighty Lord is the One Who knows best and the One Who decides. He says in the famous Hadith Qudsi, "Fasting is Mine and it is I who give the reward for it." It is also reported, "Whoever obeys Allah will enter Paradise."
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala)
says in Suras 2:184 and 2:185,
"And those who are hardly able to do it, may effect a redemption by feeding
a poor man, and even so those of his own accord performed a good deed, it is
better for him; and that ye fast is better for you if ye know." Whoever
among you witnesses the month of Ramadan should fast through it.” Muslims
respond each year to welcome the month of Ramadan as a most joyous occasion and
strive to fast the whole month of Ramadan, fulfilling by that the commandment of
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala), seeking His pleasure. This month offers Muslims
an opportunity, which if properly utilized, can revolutionize every individual
and society, and earn their eternal bliss and prosperity. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu
Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, "Fasting is like a shield, and he who fasts
has two joys: a joy when he breaks his fast and a joy when he meets his Lord.
The change in the breath of the mouth of him who fasts is better in Allah's
estimation than the smell of musk." Peace
of everlasting blessing till the dawn of the morning to whomsoever of His
servants He will, according to the decree confirmed by Him. O' Lord, help us to observe the
fasts of the month of Ramadan by restraining our limbs from disobeying Thee, and
employing them in that which would please Thee, Ameen.
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) has expressed the virtues of the month of Ramadan in the Glorious Qur'an, and so has Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) in various Hadith. In essence, Muslims are able to attain true guidance and piety and God consciousness (Taqwa) by this act of worshipping Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). Fasting flourishes and strengthens the values of Muslims in their lives, and is an act of obedience to the commands of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) manifested the superiority of the month of Ramadan over all the other months by allotting it abundant honors and celebrated excellencies. The month of Ramadan, is one of great blessings from Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta Ta’Ala) to the Muslims, and it is a month in which Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) showers His blessings generously on all obedient Muslims.
Sawm, in Arabic, word means fasting. The fasts of the month of Ramadan should be observed from the first of the month of Ramadan until the first of the following month (Shawwal), every lunar year. The first of the month of Ramadan, like the first of every month, is established by sighting the crescent of the moon. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) wants every able-bodied Muslim to fast 29 or 30 days, depending on when the moon is sighted. He says in Sura 2:184, “He wants you to complete the prescribed period and to glorify Him in that which He has guided you; perchance ye shall be grateful" The first day of the month of Shawwal marks the end of fasting of the month of Ramadan and is the first day of the Eid Al-Fitr. This day is also subject to the confirmed sighting of the crescent of the new moon (Hilal), the crescent of the month of Shawwal. Once it becomes known that Eid Al-Fitr has arrived, it is recommended to spend the night preceding this day in prayers and adoration. The Glorious Qur'an says, "They ask thee (RasoolAllah) concerning the new moons; say, ‘they are indications of time.’” 2:189
Before the month of Ramadan starts, is the best time to plan the activities of serving Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) through various of goodness and charity. Helping fellow Muslims, feeding the hungry, and giving to the needy is an act of great reward, especially during this month. The acts of charity include the obligation Zakat, the voluntary sadaqa by money or any form of assistance, other Islamic dues such as Zakat Al-Fitra, which is obligatory for Eid. The Glorious Qur'an and Hadith promise manifold rewards for charity, and state that charity cools the anger of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) and brings down many blessings on the giver. The Glorious Qur'an says, "Ramadan is the (month) in which Qur'an was sent down, as a guide to mankind, and a clear guidance and judgment (so that mankind will distinguish right from wrong). 2:185
During the month of fasting, men as well as women, rich as well as poor, influential and powerful as well as the weak and downtrodden have to observe fasts, restraining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual pleasure from dawn until sunset. Of course, as always, all sinful actions are to be constantly avoided. Fasting also regulates the desires of the lower physical self and trains the higher moral self to control them. The Glorious Qur'an says, "But whoever is sick or on a journey, the prescribed period (missed should be made up) by days later. Allah wants ease for you and He does not want to put you into difficulties. It is lawful unto you on the nights of the fast to go in unto your wives; they are an apparel for you and ye are apparel to them; Allah knoweth that ye yourselves held it fraudulent so He hath turned in mercy towards you and forgiven you. Wherefor go in unto them and seek what Allah hath prescribed for you, and eat and drink until the white of dawn becometh manifest unto you from the black streak of night thereafter complete the fast until night and associate not with them while ye are confined in the mosques. These are the bounds prescribed by Allah, therefore draw not yourselves near them; Thus doth Allah make clear His signs unto mankind so that they may guard themselves against evil." 2:185 & 2:187
Fasting is one of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala)’s countless blessings upon us. The gates of Paradise remain open in this month with a great reward for those who fast. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) prohibits certain acts during fasting which are permitted in other times to rain the consciousness of the devotee. Muslims must interact with every act performed with a conscious awareness of the act and with an involvement of the inner spirit. To continue to perform any act of worship without such an involvement might lead one to act merely out of habit and in a mechanical way, without the deep spiritual feeling and the joy of worship. This is why Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) has chosen one tenet of worship in Islam during which He prohibits acts which are otherwise permitted. The result is the revitalization of one's spirit and awareness, and the strengthening of self-control and moral consciousness. One of the spiritual benefits of fasting is that it develops one's self-discipline. The Glorious Qur'an says,"O Mankind! Worship ye only your Lord, Who created you and those before you, happily ye may guard yourselves against evil." 2:21
Fasting is a religious
obligation on every Muslim who has attained the age of puberty (adulthood), and
who is sane, able and resident during this month. For a male, fasting becomes
obligatory on the completion of thirteen to fifteen years, and for a female on
the completion of nine to thirteen years, depending on the age of attaining
puberty. It is also one of the pillars of Islam, and as such, upholds its basic
foundation. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Fasting
in the Month Ramadan is a Divine obligation.” It is reported, “Whoever is
anxious to (enter) paradise, he hastens doing good deeds." Allah (Subhanahu
Wa Ta’Ala) asks a Muslim to abstain from certain of His gifts during the
fasting period, and it is shameful to be disobedient to the command of the One
who provides these gifts. However, He permits the sick, the traveler, or a
menstruating, pregnant and or confined woman not to fast, although they should
make up the fasts they missed at a later time if they can, or else compensate by
feeding a needy person for each missed day. This in itself elevates a human
being into renewed awareness and new spiritual heights. If a Muslim breaks
his/her fast intentionally without just cause, it becomes obligatory to give
Kaffarah. The Kaffarah of illegally breaking a fast of Ramadan is to: (a) free a
slave, or (b) fast for two months, or (c) feed sixty poor to their fill or give
one mudd (= 3/4 kg.) of food-stuff such as wheat or barley or bread to each of
them. And if it is not possible for the individual to fulfill any of these,
he/she should give Sadaqa according to his/her means and seek Divine
forgiveness. However, if the fast becomes totally unbearable, and there is a
fear of dying of thirst or sustaining some extreme hardship, there is no harm in
breaking the fast and it is not obligatory to give to Kaffarah. Fasting is not
incumbent on the old, or for whom it causes extreme hardship. But in latter
case, the individual should give one mudd food to a poor person for every missed
fast. The Glorious Qur'an says, "And giveth his wealth out of love for Him
to kindred and the orphans and the poor and the wayfarer and the needy and for
those in bondage." 2:117 O'
Lord, let the gates of Paradise remain open in the month of Ramadan, and we pray
to You, our Lord, to admit us and our parents through them, Ameen.
The month of Ramadan is derived from the ancient language. The months were named according to the various seasons in which they then fell, and the month of Ramadan fell in the days of excessive heat. The word Ramadan is derived from Ramad which in Arabic means great heat or burning. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) explained, "The month of Ramadan was so named because it tends to ‘Ramad’ the sins, that is, it burns them."
Fasting is the oldest recorded ritual of spiritual purification known to man and it is prevalent in many of the worlds' religions in different forms, the general practice is abstinence from food, drink, and other pleasures for a duration of time. The People of the Book such as the Jews, were known to have fasted for forty days at Mount Sinai, and the Christians were reported to have observed fasting on the day of atonement, and formerly fasted for forty days to set the precedence for the pre-Easter fast among some Christians. Others such as Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, Hindus and Buddhists practiced fasting for various reasons. They used to fast immediately before engaging in a war in order to gain victory, or incorporated fasting into their doctrines and prescribed it for those who were passing through periods of trials and tribulations. The forms of these various fasts differed from one group to another, abstaining from different things for different durations. Fasting has also historically taken the form of observing silence and refraining from speaking to any human being during a period of time. Mariam (Alayhi Salam), the mother of Jesus (Alayhi Salam) and Zakariya (Alayhi Salam) were commanded to observe this type of fast. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) says in Suras 19:26 and 3:41, “Verily I have vowed unto the Beneficent a fast so shall I not speak today unto any man.” “The Sign for Thee shall be that thou shalt not speak unto men for three days except by signs.” The Glorious Qur'an says, "O ye who believe! Fasting has been ordained unto you as it was ordained unto those before you so that ye may guard yourself (against evil)" 2:183.
The Arabic word Sabr is a comprehensive term. It means persisting with one's duty and mission in the face of great hardships. In other words; it encompasses steadfastness, firmness of purpose, patience, perseverance, the power to bear difficulties and sorrows with a strong will and unwavering faith. Fasting has a direct positive effect on a person's psychological, social, and physical being by changing his/her habits and emotional attitude toward exercising patience in virtually everything in life. This also makes the fasting person hardy and strong-willed to become better able to face the hardships of life. This benefit of fasting trains an individual to be able to overcome difficulties and draw nearer to Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). It teaches us to walk warily, to discipline our inner life. It reminds us of our accountability in this life in our preparation for the Hereafter. The Glorious Qur'an has made it clear that the object of fasting is to instill piety. Life is surrounded with seemingly attractive bushes of desires, which the road to Paradise is lined with thorns. The Glorious Qur'an says, "O' ye who believe! seek help with patience and prayer; Verily Allah is with the patient ones." 2:153
Ramadan is a month that carries great blessings from Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) to the Muslims, and is the most joyous occasion for all. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “If my followers realized the importance of the month of Ramadan they would wish that the whole year was the month of Ramadan.” The month of Ramadan is the month of giving and benefits, which are perceived only by those who perform it with a strong belief and sincere faith. Unfortunately, some Muslims simply invert their schedules during the nights and the days during the month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, and working all night long, and sleeping all day long (but also praying). This defeats the purpose of devoting extra time for prayer during the night, but also resting in order to be able to fulfill the responsibilities and obligations during the day. Moreover, fasting is supposed to provide a Muslim with a state of mind that is focused on the duties toward Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala), so that the Muslim can train himself or herself to work daily through words, actions, and emotions in accordance with the pleasure of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). Hence, it is important to accommodate the fast during the day while performing the regular duties of daily life, trying to correct and improve oneself, so that this improvement remains with the individual once the month of Ramadan has passed. We ask of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) to protect us from the Fire. Also we ask Him to accept our fasts and reward us with the best rewards in this life and in the hereafter, Ameen.
Fasting promotes the spirit of charity and compassion towards the poor and the needy, and it reminds each believer of strengthening ties among themselves and bringing the whole community closer to each other as well as to their Creator. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) says in Sura 59:21, “Successful indeed are the believers, who are humble in their prayers, and who keep aloof from what is vain, and who are givers of the poor-rate.” The Glorious Qur'an and the Hadith of Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) stress the fact that wealth belongs only Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala), and that man is no more than a proxy of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) in supervising it. Consequently, man should not disobey Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) regarding this trust that has been put under his charge. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) says in Suras 3:189 and 35:3, “And Allah’s (alone) is the Kingdom of heavens and the earth; and He has power over all things. O ye people! Remember Allah’s bounty on you; Is there any creator other than Allah Who provideth you with sustenance from heaven or earth?” Muslims are commanded to spend of the wealth that Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) has bestowed upon them, on those who are in need. The fact is that wealth is not theirs, for they act only as representatives who have been assigned by Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) to manage it. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) says in Suras 57:7 and 63:10, “Spend ye (in charity) of whatever He hath made you the successors thereof; and spend ye of that We have provided you with (in the way of Allah), ere that whom death cometh unto one of you, he sayeth: 'O my Lord! respite me unto a near term, so that I may give alms, and be of the doers of good.” Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Charity keeps away from its giver, the heat of the grave, and on the Day of Judgment, the believer will be in the shade of his charity. Allah smiles at the person who stretches out his hand to give in charity, and whomever Allah smiles at is forgiven. Guard yourselves from the fire (through charity) even if it be by a date, for surely Allah will raise it (cause it to grow), just as one of you raises his foal until it becomes greater than a huge mountain.” The Glorious Qur'an says, “ There is nothing good in most of their whisperings except (in his) who bideth charity or goodness or peace among the people; And whoever doth this seeking the pleasure of Allah, anon We will give him a great recompense.” 76:8 & 4:114
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) made fasting incumbent equitable on both the rich and the poor. A rich man does not feel the pains of hunger to have a true sense of mercy for the poor since he is able to obtain whatever he likes, whenever he/she desires. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) wanted to put His creatures on an equal footing by making the rich taste the pangs of hunger, so that they might pity and have mercy on the hungry, which elevating both spiritually. Fasting teaches individuals to realize the difficulties of those who are less fortunate, and to develop compassion toward the hungry and the needy, and those spiritual who are facing famine and poverty in many Islamic lands. Also, multitudes of people around the world live in dire poverty, with very little means to overcome the misery they live in. Young children are forced to live under extremely miserable conditions. They have to struggle daily to get food. Many have no homes or shelters, and some have to join the work-force to earn for their families. For such children, childhood as a period of carefree days filled with play and laughter is non-existent. Toys, delicious food, new clothes and all the other luxuries that are taken for granted by many of us, are all unattainable dreams. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) urges mankind to acts of charity and makes it attractive to believers by describing charity as a goodly loan. He says in Suras 2:245 and 61:1011, “Who is he that will lend unto Allah a fair loan? Verily, He will multiply it unto him manifold. It is Allah that holdeth and extendeth, and unto Him shall ye be returned. O you who believe! Shall I lead you to a commerce that saves you from a grievous penalty? You should believe in Allah and His messenger, and should strive (your utmost) in the cause of Allah with your property and your lives. That will be best for you, if you but knew.”
This is the genesis of the fast in Islam. One, who while fasting does not guard his tongue from telling lies and does not refrain from bad deeds, is not respecting his/her fast. Allah does not approve of mere abstention from food. The Glorious Qur'an says, "Unambiguously, feeding of the poor person as a ransom for not fasting (by those who can fast) is not allowed.” 2:185
Muslims should follow the perfect code of that Islam prescribes in its totality. No benefit can be achieved by accepting a part of it while rejecting the rest. In this case, one would be abusing the name of Islam and their contributing toward do annihilation. Fasting promotes the spirit of charity and compassion towards the poor and the needy and to give them further comfort. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Propagate the word of peace, feed the hungry, pray while others are asleep, enter paradise peacefully.” The Glorious Qur ‘an says, “O ‘ Our RasoolAllah Muhammad! As to what they shall spend (in alms).” 2:219
One of the spiritual benefits of fasting is that it develops self-discipline. It is reported, “Whoever during the month of Ramadan fasts in its days, stands up for prayers in parts of the night, controls his desires and emotions, puts a rein on his tongue, keeps his eyes down, and does not injure the feelings of others, will become as free of sins as the day he was born. The sleep of a fasting person is worship, his silence is glorification (of Allah), his prayers are answered, and his actions are multiplied.” Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, "When you are fasting, you should not speak ill of anybody, nor should you be rough and noisy. If anybody speaks ill of you or tries to pick a quarrel with you, reply him not, but say to him that you are fasting. The day of your fast should not be like any ordinary day. When you fast, all your senses - eyes, ears, tongue, hands and feet must fast with you.” Mere hunger and thirst do not constitute a fast.
Fasting is a sentinel against disease and harmful bacteria and it helps those who have problems with obesity and diabetes. Muslim researchers have studied and observed the effect of dietary fat on blood cholesterol and uric acid levels as well as energy intake through fat. However, they discovered that during fasting when energy is limited, increased dietary fat levels resulted in a reduced breakdown of body protein, including labile proteins. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-receptors, which are protein in nature, also may be affected. Thus, a high-fat diet contributes in preventing the elevation of blood cholesterol level at restricted energy conditions. These findings have probable usefulness not only among Muslims observing Ramadan but also for non-Muslims having anorexia nervosa, people who are significantly under-weight, populations in under-developed or developing countries, persons on prolonged low-calorie diets in weight-control programs, and in many other situations with restricted energy intake conditions. It is reported, “Fast, and you shall be healthy.” A physician reported that, "It is mandatory on every person who is sick to restrain from food certain days in a year whether he be wealthy or poor, because if bacteria can find food in abundance in the body, it will grow and multiply. But with fasting, bacteria become weak.''
Human beings sometimes commit sins out of weaknesses or ignorance, and Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) is the Most Merciful, the oft-Forgiving. It is narrated that, "Whoever fasted the month of Ramadan with faith and in expectancy of reward, his previous sins are forgiven.” Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “During the month of Ramadan, the gates of Heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell-fire are closed, and the devils are tied up in chains. Fasting darkens his (Satan's) face, while charity breaks his back, and the love of fellow Muslim for Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala)'s sake and assisting others in doing good deeds cuts off his tail, and seeking Allah's forgiveness splits his spine. For everything there is a Zakat (purification), and the Zakat of bodies is fasting." He also said, "So, ask your Lord, with pure intentions, for forgiveness of your sins and a rectification of your evil desires. Ask Him for the opportunity to be able to keep the fast and recite the Glorious Qur’an in this month. Indeed, unfortunate is the one who does not attain Divine grace in this month."
However notwithstanding its benefits, a Muslim fasts solely because this is a command from Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). It is reported that the individual who fasts in the month of Ramadan out of belief in Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) and desires to obey His command shall be pardoned for all the past sins and that he/she will be protected from the Fire. The joy in the mixed feeling when the month of Ramadan departs lies in the satisfaction that the individual has successfully completed his/her obligation to Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). The month of Ramadan is an invitation for the sinners to cleanse themselves and seek the forgiveness Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala). A sinner who has disobeyed his Lord, and should not miss the opportunity when Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) offers a special pardon. The sinner should seize this chance to erase his/her sins and relieve himself/herself of the burden of disobedience. It is reported, “Pray and seek forgiveness more frequently in the month of Ramadan. Prayer wards off misfortune, and forgiveness cleanses your sins. Unfortunate is the person who is deprived of the forgiveness of Allah during this great month of Ramadan. Fasting is a protection from the fire.” Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Iblees declared to Allah that he would continuously try to lead humans astray so long as they were alive. Allah answered that He would continuously forgive them so long as they sought His forgiveness. Seek forgiveness abundantly; for Allah has not taught you how to seek forgiveness except because He wishes to forgive you. Fortunate is the person who finds in his record of deeds an abundance of seeking forgiveness. Whoever is not forgiven in the month of Ramadan, then in which month will he be forgiven?” Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) says in Suras 3:133 and 4:110, “And hasten unto (the means to obtain) forgiveness from your Lord, and attain Paradise vast as the heavens and the earth, prepared for the pious. And whoever does evil or wrongeth his own self and thereafter seeketh pardon of Allah, shall find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Merciful.” It is reported, “The similitude of sins being erased upon seeking forgiveness is like when a tree. The tree is shaken, the leaves fall off.” The Glorious Qur'an says, “Will they not turn to Allah and ask pardon of Him? Verily Allah is Oft-forgiving, Merciful.” 5:74
During the month of Ramadan,
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) reminds believers to set aside more time than
usual to study the Glorious Qur'an and understand the word of Allah (Subhanahu
Wa Ta’Ala), and to learn and ponder over its verses. It is the season when the
word of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) blooms and flourishes, and Muslims feel so
good to hear the beautiful recitation of the Glorious Qur'an, like the song of
the bird. It is reported that,
“Everything has a springtime, and the springtime of the Qur'an is the month of
Ramadan. Invoke Allah, ask for His forgiveness, recite the Qur'an, and repent to
Allah for your sins more frequently, so that the blessings of the month of
Ramadan may come to you, while you are sincere to Allah, the Exalted.”
Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Everything has a
decoration, and the decoration for the Qur'an is a beautiful voice. Illuminate
your homes by reciting the Qur'an for if the Qur'an is recited frequently in a
house, it brings blessings for the family, and the house will give light to
those in Heaven as the stars of Heaven give light to those on the earth. The
heart gathers rust like iron. Remove this rust by the recitation of the Qur'an.
Whoever derives pleasure from the recitation of Qur'an, will not be depressed by
the departure of friends. A person gets the same reward by reciting a single in
this month, verse of the Qur'an, as one would do by reciting the whole of the
Qur'an in other months.” It is therefore, highly recommended to recite entire
Glorious Qur'an (with understanding) during the month of Ramadan.
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) loves the believers who ask from Him, and supplicate constantly. He says in Sura 13:28, “And those who believe and their hearts are set at rest by Allah’s remembrance; Certainly by Allah's remembrance (only) are hearts set at rest.” It is reported, “Whoever is prevented from food that he likes because of his fast, Allah will feed him from the food of Heaven and from its drink. Allah loves nothing better than that His servants ask from Him.” Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Supplicate (in Ramadan) with your hands raised at the times of prayer, as these are the best of times during which The Almighty Lord looks at His servants with mercy. (He) answers if they supplicate, responds if they call, grants if they ask, and accepts if they entreat. The prayer of a fasting person at the time of breaking the fast (Iftar) is never rejected.”
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala)
says in Sura 59:21, “Had We sent
down this Qur’an, on the mountain, thou (O Muhammad RasoolAllah) wouldst
certainly have seen it (the mountain) humble itself, and rent asunder for the
fear of Allah. And We set forth these similitudes unto mankind that they may
reflect.” One of the most beneficial of the month of Ramadan is Laylatul Qadr
(the night of Decree), including Power, Honor, Glory, and Magnanimity. Nabiy
Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) would spend the entire night in
worship, along with his family. He said, "Ramadan is a great month, a
blessed month, containing a night which is better than a thousand months."
The Glorious Qur'an says "Verily, We sent it (The Qur'an) down in the Night
of Qadr. What can make thee know what the Night of Qadr’ is? The Night of Qadr
is better than than a thousand months. The Angels and the Spirit descend therein
by the permission of their Lord, with (decrees) of all affairs. Peace is (in
whole Night) till the breaking of the dawn!" 97:1-5 Praise be to Allah Who
ordained His month, the month of Ramadan, the month of fasting, the month of
Islam, the month of purity, the month of purification and the month of standing
up (for prayers), in which the Qur'an was made to descend, as a guidance for all
of mankind. He gave excellence to one of its nights over a thousand months and
named it the night of Qadr, wherein descend the angels and the spirit by the
permission of their Almighty Lord, for every matter, Ameen.
Zakat Al-Fitr is an obligatory alms-giving enjoined upon each individual Muslim to complete his/her religious duties of the month of Ramadan. If an individual is adult and sane, he/she must pay Zakat Al-Fitr. It is paid for ending the fast of the month of Ramadan. It is incumbent upon the head of the household who is able to support himself, to pay this on behalf himself, all his dependents, and guests, Muslim or non-Muslims. The amount of Zakat Al-Fitr is about three kilos of wheat or barley or dates or raisins or whatever is consumed as normal food. Preferably, the amount of the Zakat Al-Fitr is between $7 and $15 and this amount is subject to change depending on the cost of living in a particular location. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said: “For everything there is a Zakat (purification).”
Fasting reminds each believer of strengthening ties among themselves, their families by invitations and visitations to eat together Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, "When a believer invites you, you should respond." Also, its bringing the whole community closer to each other as well as to their Creator. Allah bestows his mercy upon those who themselves are merciful to others. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, "Those who are merciful to others, the Merciful will have mercy upon them. Have mercy upon those on earth, and those in heaven will have mercy upon you." He also said, "Reconciliation of your differences is more worthy than all prayers and all fasting." Muslims celebrate the Eid to be thankful to Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) for giving them the chance and the strength to carry out His commands in the blessed month, and to attain Taqwa (piety and God-Consiousness), the main actual reason of fasting. “You shall complete the number (of days) and you may Glorify Allah for His guiding you, and that you may be thankful.” Muslims celebrate Eid Al-Fitr, the Feast of Fast-Breaking, by thanking The Almighty Who enabled them to fast, and serving the needy and the poor. This is the day that Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) and Muhammad RasoolAllah (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) urge the Muslim who has fasted in the month of Ramadan to ask Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) with sincerity, for He has promised to respond. It is also customary on this occasion for Muslims to wear good clothes, put on perfume, and go to the Eid prayer while reciting the Takbir (Allahu Akbar), glorifying Allah in a loud voice. Muhammad RasoolAllah (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, "Give beauty to your Eid by doing Takbir." It is also customary to give gifts to the members of the family, especially to children, and to visit friends and relatives with Greetings of 'Eid mubarak’. The first day of Shawwal marks the end of fasting and the day of Eid Al-Fitr. Once it becomes known that Eid Al-Fitr has arrived, it is recommended to spend the night preceding this day in prayers and adoration. Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, "The heart of anyone who spends the Eid night in prayers will not die on the Day when hearts die." It is reported, “Eid is for him whose fasts have been accepted by Allah, and whose worship has been appreciated by Allah. Everyday in which you do not disobey Allah is a day of Eid.” The celebration at the end of Ramadan is called 'Eid-Al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking). It is a joyous occasion, but yet.
Peace be on thee, O month in which attaining hopes neared, and in which
good deeds increased. Peace be on this month which was a highly respected
companion when present, and whose absence is lamented when it is gone. Peace be
on thee as thou didst come to us with blessings and didst wash away from us the
dirt of guilt. Let it be the best day that passed over us, the greatest attract
or of pardon, and the greatest eraser of sin. O' Lord, bless us on the day of Eid, which Thou hast ordained to be a
festival and a day of joy, of gathering, and of congregation for the people of
Thy creed, Ameen.
In summary, fasting is
awareness, and training for the body and soul, the strengthening of self-control
and moral consciousness. It is a renewal of life, encouraging the spirit of
sharing and giving. It also teach self-restraint, the fear of Allah (Subhanahu
Wa Ta’Ala), instills in the heart the essence of consciousness of the Creator,
moral courage both in secret and in what is manifested, guiding the heart, the
seat of emotion from spoilage and moral indecency. A Muslim plans his/her time
in such a way that in Ramadan he/she is not overwhelmed by the demands of the
world. He/she lessens work if possible and cuts down on activities which can be
put to a halt for a little while. The chance to earn rewards and blessings from
Allah in this special time will only last a limited time. He/she must make sure
their daily schedules allow maximum benefit of this special time. May Allah (Subhanahu
Wa Ta’Ala) bless and reward Muslims, enable them to fast, and may He rank them
among those whose fast is accepted and whose sins are forgiven. May He reward
them in this world and in the Hereafter according to the best of their deeds,
and may He grant them happiness, good health, peace, and contentment. O’
Lord, forgive our parents and also all true believers and Muslims, Ameen.
Islam prohibits wasting
substance and other resources, unfortunately, Many Muslims spend the gifts of
The Almighty Lord mostly to please themselves and fulfill their own personal
desires. Some even spend Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala)’s gifts to weaken
Muslims by different mean. There is no fear of The Almighty Lord in the hearts
of such people. The Glorious Qur'an says, "Eat ye and drink and
commit ye not by excesses; He (Allah) loveth not extravagants. Eat of the lawful and good things which Allah has provided for you
and give thanks for His favours if it is He Whom you worship.” 7:31
& 16:114 The income from His Gifts should be used to improve the life
of all and we pray a day to come when
this will be implemented, Ameen.
The Glorious Qur'an contains great cures for mankind, beautiful gems of wisdom for life, and the best instructions for happiness in this world and the Hereafter. Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) speaks to human beings through it, and it is incumbent upon all believers to find out for themselves what Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala) has said to them. He says in Suras 13:28 and 30:38, “Surely by the Remembrance of Allah are hearts set at rest. Then give to the near of kin his due, and to the needy and the wayfarer. This is best for those who desire Allah's pleasure, and these it is who are successful.” Nabiy Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Waalihi Wasalam) said, “Invoke your Lord in right earnestness, with hearts that are free of sin and evil, to enable you to fast and to recite His Book (the Qur'an). Whoever recites an ayat from the Qur'an (in Ramadan) will receive a similar reward as the one who recites the entire Qur'an in other months.” The Glorious Qur'an says, “Verily, believers are only those who when Allah is mentioned, their hearts get thrilled, and when unto them are recited His sign, they increase them in faith, and on Allah (alone) do they rely.” 8:2
AL-KUFA
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Wa Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatuh