What does fasting signify to you, and what emotions do you experience during fasting? It’s worth pondering whether fasting has ever been recognised as a means to humble the ego and dissolve pride within oneself. If indeed it holds such transformative power, then it stands as one of the noblest practices.
Fasting cultivates inner strength and wisdom, facilitating a deeper understanding of oneself. It offers an opportunity for introspection, allowing individuals to reconnect with their inner selves and evaluate their actions, particularly those involving deceit, dishonesty, and betrayal.
In this month of fasting, it is a chance for genuine self-assessment, acknowledging any wrongdoings committed against others. Indeed, none are exempt from the burdens of sin in this world.
Allah has ordained fasting during Ramadhan, as mentioned explicitly in the Quran: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al Muttaqun (the pious).” Such divine commands must be adhered to and honoured.
At its core, fasting during Ramadhan is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam. Beyond the physical act of abstaining from food and drink from dawn to dusk, it holds profound spiritual significance.
Fasting entails suppressing worldly desires and enduring hardship to deepen one’s connection with nature and the Almighty. The practice of fasting predates Islam, originating in other religions. There exists profound meaning and wisdom behind this ancient tradition, yet its true essence often eludes many.
One aspect I have come to appreciate about fasting is its ability to instil empathy by allowing individuals to experience a fraction of the suffering endured by millions facing hunger and deprivation daily.
Ramadhan is a time for virtuous behaviour, increased Quranic recitation, self-restraint, and spiritual rejuvenation. It fosters a sense of community and empathy, urging individuals to reflect on their actions and treat others with kindness and compassion.
There are invaluable lessons to be gleaned from Ramadhan, and the challenge lies in incorporating these teachings into our lives beyond the holy month. Ultimately, the profound wisdom of fasting lies in nurturing humanity and fostering a collective sense of compassion and empathy.
Fasting during Ramadhan was instituted in 624 CE, during the early years of Islam, following the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) migration from Mecca to Medina. This marked the inception of the Islamic calendar.
Fasting is practiced in various forms across different religions, even before Islam as mentioned in the Holy Quran. For instance, Buddhist monks and nuns adhere to a disciplined regimen that includes fasting after their noon meal to aid in meditation and promote good health.
In the Catholic Church, Lent involves fasting and abstaining from meat and dairy products for 40 days, with exceptions granted by popes in certain circumstances.
Hindus observe fasting on specific days of the month, such as Ekadasi, Pradosha, or Purnima, as part of their religious practices.
For Jews, fasting entails complete abstention from food and drink, including water, on certain designated days, except on Shabbat, which takes precedence over fast days.
Regardless of religious tradition, the essence of fasting lies in cultivating compassion, well-being, and goodwill towards all beings. As stated in the Guru Granth SahibJi, “Let your mind be content and be kind to all beings. In this way, your fast will be successful.”
Exploring fasting across various religions reveals a common wisdom: fasting is not about suffering, but rather about safeguarding against gluttony and impure thoughts, actions, and speech.
Fasting must always be accompanied by increased prayer and alms giving (donating to a local charity, or directly to the poor, depending on circumstances).
Partaking in fasting without these essential components is viewed as futile or potentially damaging to one’s spiritual well-being.
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