Over 1.8 billion Muslims fast during Ramadan every year. But have you ever wondered why fasting is such an important part of this holy month? What’s the purpose behind it, and why do Muslims choose to go without food and drink all day?
For Muslims, Ramadan is a month of reflection, discipline, and gratitude. It’s a time to grow spiritually and connect with others. In this blog, we’ll examine the top five reasons why Muslims fast during Ramadan.
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What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and one of the holiest times for Muslims worldwide. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. The other pillars include the Shahada (declaration of faith), Salah (daily prayers), Zakat (charity giving), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah).
Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, avoiding food, drink, and certain actions (such as sexual intercourse) to focus on their faith and grow closer to Allah. However, there are exceptions for people who are severely ill, pregnant, nursing, menstruating, or too young to fast.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth, blessings, and self-discipline. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) reportedly said,
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported the Prophet (PBUH) as saying,
“When there comes the month of Ramadan, the gates of Paradise are opened, and the gates of Hell are locked, and the devils are chained.”
(Riyad as-Salihin 1220)
This hadith beautifully highlights the special blessings of Ramadan. The opening of the gates of Paradise and the chaining of the devils inspire Muslims to seek Allah’s forgiveness and engage in as many good deeds as possible during this blessed month.
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Why do Muslims Fast during Ramadan
Muslims fast during Ramadan for several important reasons, each contributing to spiritual growth and personal reflection. Here are the top five reasons why fasting is so significant during this blessed month:
1. To Show Obedience to the Command of Allah Almighty
Muslims fast during Ramadan because Allah has commanded it as an act of worship and obedience. Fasting is not a new practice for Muslims; it was also required in earlier nations. As true believers, Muslims hasten to obey Allah's commands, trusting that it is for their benefit and spiritual growth.
Allah says in the Quran,
“It is not for a believing man or woman—when Allah and His Messenger decree a matter—to have any other choice in that matter. Indeed, whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger has clearly gone (far) astray.”
(Surah Al- Ahzab, verse 36)
This verse reminds everyone of the importance of submitting to Allah’s will. By fasting, Muslims show their submission and devotion to Allah, knowing that He is the best guide.
2. To Become a Pious Person
Allah has prescribed a variety of acts of worship to test how faithfully believers obey Him.
For example, if you think of the five pillars of Islam, you will realise that some of them are purely physical (Salah) while some are purely financial (Zakat) or a combination of both (Hajj) in addition to their spiritual significance.
Similarly, fasting during Ramadan is a physical act of refraining from things that Muslims desire, such as food and drink, as an act of submission to Allah. In the Quran, Allah says:
“O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (pious).”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 183)
This verse explains that the primary reason Muslims fast during Ramadan is to develop taqwa (piety) and strengthen their submission to Allah. Taqwa means avoiding what is haram (unlawful) and diligently obeying Allah's commands. Through fasting, Muslims work to purify their hearts and increase their devotion to their faith.
3. To Feel Empathy for the Less Fortunate
Fasting during Ramadan helps Muslims understand the struggles of those who are less fortunate. When you go without food and water from dawn to sunset, you experience hunger and thirst, just as people in need feel every day.
This experience builds empathy and reminds Muslims to appreciate the blessings they have, such as access to food and water. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) also encouraged Muslims to help others and give more in charity, especially during Ramadan.
Once Anas (RA) asked the Prophet (PBUH), “Which charity is the best?” He responded,
“The best charity is that given in Ramadan.”
(Jami At Tirmidhi 663)
By feeling the struggles of others, Muslims are inspired to be more generous and compassionate, which strengthens the bond within the community.
4. To Learn Self-Discipline
Self-discipline is about controlling your desires, avoiding things that are forbidden in Islam, and staying in control of your actions and words. One of the main reasons Muslims fast during Ramadan is to build this kind of self-discipline.
If a person does not control themselves and continues to do bad things, then their fasting loses its true purpose. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
"Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink."
(Sahih Al-Bukhari 6057)
This Hadith clearly indicates the purpose of fasting, which is to control oneself from doing bad deeds and harming others (whether through your words or actions). By staying hungry and thirsty until sunset, Muslims practice self-control and work to become better people.
5. To Show Gratitude for Allah’s Blessings
Ramadan is a special time for Muslims to reflect on the many blessings Allah has given them. Fasting helps Muslims feel thankful for the things they often take for granted, like good health, food, family, and the support of their community.
In the Quran, Allah commands,
“Remember Me; I will remember you. And thank Me, and never be ungrateful.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 152)
By fasting, praying, and giving to charity, Muslims show their gratitude to Allah. This helps them realise how fortunate they are and encourages them to appreciate what they have. It also inspires them to use their blessings in ways that can make a positive difference in the lives of others, creating a more compassionate and generous community.
Conclusion
In summary, fasting during Ramadan is much more than refraining from food and drink. It’s a time for Muslims to grow spiritually, develop self-discipline, and strengthen their connection with Allah.
As the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
“Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah's rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih Al-Bukhari 38)
Ramadan is an opportunity for Muslims to purify their hearts, practice gratitude, and show empathy for those less fortunate. Through fasting, they not only cleanse their bodies but also strengthen their faith which helps them become better individuals.
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