Why Is Fasting Wajib? Understanding the Fourth Pillar of Islam
Fasting (Sawm) during Ramadan is Wajib (obligatory) for every adult, sane, and healthy Muslim because it is the Fourth Pillar of Islam, explicitly commanded by Allah in the Quran to cultivate Taqwa (God-consciousness). It is a divine decree designed to purify the soul, discipline the body, and foster deep empathy for the less fortunate.
The Spiritual Journey: More Than Just Hunger
We live in a world of abundance, yet our souls often feel empty. We are constantly consuming, yet rarely satisfied. Ramadan arrives as a spiritual intervention, a time to pause the chaos and reconnect with our Creator.
But fasting is not merely about empty stomachs or parched throats. It is a profound lesson in gratitude. When you feel the pangs of hunger, you are not suffering; you are unlocking a window into the daily reality of millions of people who have no food to break their fast. This shared experience allows you to transform your hunger into hope for others.
The Divine Command: Roots in the Quran and Sunnah
The obligation of fasting is established in the Holy Quran, where Allah (SWT) addresses the believers directly:
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 2:183)
This verse reveals the ultimate purpose of this obligation: Righteousness (Taqwa). It is an exercise in self-restraint. By abstaining from permissible things (like food and drink) for the sake of Allah, we learn to easily abstain from forbidden things (sins) throughout the rest of the year.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) further illuminated the immense value of this act:
“Whoever fasts in Ramadan out of faith and hope for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
Through fasting, we achieve spiritual purification and forgiveness, a gift we should cherish and strive for.
How Does Fasting Benefit Us Spiritually and Socially?
Fasting is a complete act of submission that has profound spiritual, emotional, and social impacts. Here are some of its key benefits:
- Strengthening Taqwa (God-consciousness): Fasting trains us to resist temptations and focus on pleasing Allah. By controlling our desires, we develop a deeper connection with Him.
- Promoting Gratitude: Experiencing hunger and thirst reminds us of Allah’s blessings, which we often take for granted. It fosters gratitude and humility.
- Encouraging Unity: During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide unite in Suhoor, fasting, and Iftar, symbolizing our shared devotion and community spirit.
- Caring for the Needy: Fasting increases our empathy for those who face hunger daily. It encourages acts of charity, making us more compassionate toward the less fortunate.
What Are the Rules of Fasting in Islam?
The rules of fasting are clear and straightforward, designed to guide us in fulfilling this sacred duty. Here’s an overview:
- Intention (Niyyah): Fasting begins in the heart. You must make a distinct intention to fast for the sake of Allah before the break of dawn (Fajr).
- Abstinence from Prohibitions (Haram): From dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), a fasting person must abstain from:
- Eating and drinking
- Intimate relations (physical sex)
- Engaging in sinful behavior, such as lying, gossiping, or arguing
- Breaking the Fast (Iftar): The fast is broken at sunset with a simple meal, often starting with dates and water, as was the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
- Exceptions to Fasting: Islam is a religion of mercy. Those who are ill, pregnant, nursing, traveling, or experiencing hardships are exempt from fasting. However, they must make up the missed days or feed the poor as compensation. It can be compensated by paying ransom (Fidya). Read more about Fidya and how to pay it.
Exemptions and Compensation: The Mercy of Islam
Islam is a religion of ease, not hardship. Several groups are exempt from fasting:
- The sick (physical or mental illness).
- Travelers.
- Pregnant or nursing mothers (if they fear for their health or the baby).
- The elderly who are too weak to fast.
Important: If you cannot fast due to a chronic condition or old age, you are required to pay Fidya. This is a charitable compensation used to feed a poor person for every day missed.
[Click here to calculate and pay your Fidya securely using Cryptocurrency.]How Do We Observe Fasting from Suhoor to Iftar?
Fasting is not just about physical restraint; it’s a complete journey of worship from Suhoor to Iftar.
- Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal): The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged eating Suhoor as it brings blessings: “Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim).
This meal prepares us physically and spiritually for the day ahead. It is best to include nutritious foods and hydrate well. This is of particular importance to us and we at “Our Islamic Charity” do our best to observe all the traditions in the Suhoor and Iftar programs and prepare the most complete Suhoor and Iftar for the needy. You can also donate for Suhoor and Iftar. - Daytime Worship (Ibadah): During the fast, engage in acts of worship such as reciting the Quran, offering extra prayers, and giving Sadaqah (charity). Keep your tongue free from idle talk and focus on Dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
- Iftar (Breaking the Fast): At sunset, break your fast with dates and water while making Dua, as the time of Iftar is a moment when prayers are accepted. Then, enjoy a balanced meal to replenish your energy.
Fasting is Wajib because it transforms us. It takes us from a state of heedlessness to a state of awareness. It reminds us that we are dependent on Allah and responsible for our brothers and sisters in humanity.
This Ramadan, do not just starve your body; feed your soul and feed the poor. Whether it is paying your Zakat, Fidya, or general Sadaqah, your contribution can change the trajectory of valid lives.
May Allah accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds in this holy month. Ameen.
