Being a Muslim, do you ever consider to figure out the core principles of Islam? Most of us just know that Islam is based on five pillars, but significantly less of them consider going deep about them. Remember, these pillars are its base, and our religion is based on Allah’s obedience. Among these five, the fourth one is fasting (Roza), and here, we'll examine this particular pillar and find out the significance of fasting in this Ramadan guide.
Nevertheless, topics in our discussion are not limited to just importance, but the purpose of Roza, its importance, and its advantages, as well as providing helpful advice on how to make the most of it. So what are you waiting for? Join us as we are ready to understand and appreciate the fourth pillar of Islam!
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds immense spiritual importance in Islam. It is a time of increased devotion, self-discipline, and gratitude. Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn to dusk, engaging in prayer, charity, and reflection. This month serves as an opportunity for self-purification and spiritual growth, bringing believers closer to Allah.
Purpose of Ramadan
Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is a holistic practice aimed at fostering spiritual, moral, and social well-being.
Some key purposes include:
- Strengthening Faith: Through fasting, Muslims develop a closer connection with Allah and seek His mercy.
- Developing Self-Discipline: The act of fasting teaches patience, self-restraint, and mindfulness in daily life.
- Encouraging Empathy and Charity: Experiencing hunger helps Muslims empathize with the less fortunate, motivating acts of kindness and charity (Zakat).
Introduction to the Five Pillars and the Significance of Ramadan
A Muslim's life is framed by the Five Pillars of Islam, which direct them towards a happy and moral path. The Hajj (voyage to Mecca), Salat (prayer), Zakat (mandatory charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Shahadah (statement of faith) are all included in these pillars.
Ramadan is one of these pillars in particular. This month is one of deep introspection, increased devotion to Allah, and spiritual progress. All Muslims of legal age must fast during the month of Ramadan, except for those who are unwell, elderly, on lengthy journeys, pregnant, or nursing.
Ramadan Fasting and Its Importance
Fasting is called “swam” in Arabic, while “roza” in Urdu. Being Muslims, we fast (refrain from eating and drinking) from dawn to dusk, smoke, and keep ourselves at a distance from activities that our religion asks us to abide by. Notwithstanding its physical limitations, this self-control exercise strengthens our connection with Allah and develops compassion for those who are poorer.
What is Roza in Islam?
Roza (fasting) is more than just an act of worship; it is a means of self-purification. It is a reminder that sustenance comes from Allah alone, fostering gratitude and humility.
Fasting Dua (Niyyat & Iftar Dua)
Suhoor (Pre-dawn) Intention (Niyyat) for Fasting:
“وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍّ نَوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ”
“I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan”
Dua for Breaking Fast (Iftar):
"اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ أَفْطَرْتُ"
"O Allah! I fasted for You, I believe in You, I put my trust in You, and with Your sustenance, I break my fast."
The Quran, the holy book of Islam, mentions the obligation of fasting in Surah Al-Baqarah verse 183: "O you who have believed, fasting is prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you that you may become righteous." This verse highlights the importance of Roza not just as a ritual but as a transformative practice that cultivates righteousness within us.
Purpose of Ramadan Fasting
Millions of people worldwide observe Ramadan fasting, which is a fundamental Islamic obligation. However, why is this refraining from? Let's look at the many objectives of the Ramadan fast:
Deepening Connection with Allah
Essentially, roza is a spiritual ritual. We enhance our bond with Allah by avoiding worldly pleasures. Hunger pangs provide a continual reminder that we depend on Allah for our living, encouraging gratitude and modesty. Moreover, the days of self-control offer us more time to offer prayer (Namaz), Quran recitation, and contemplation, which deepens our relationship with Allah.
You Can Join the Awwal Quran Community for Online Quran Learning and learn more About Ramadan Fasting.
Cultivating Self-Discipline and Taqwa
Fasting throughout Ramadan is a test of our dedication. However, self-control is necessary to manage hunger pangs and avoid difficulties. This practice strengthens our resolve and teaches us how to manage our desires—a quality known as Taqwa in Islam. Moreover, overcoming hardship and using self-control helps us develop our inner strength and become better versions of ourselves.
Empathy for the Less Fortunate
We may feel hunger when we fast. Our everyday experience makes it easier for us to sympathize with people experiencing food insecurity. The hunger pangs become a bridge of understanding, encouraging acts of charity (Zakat) and compassion towards such people.
Building Community and Shared Sacrifice
As we know, unity is essential, and our religion promotes love and respect for everyone. Nevertheless, the Suhoor and the Iftar transform into communal gatherings. We encourage one another, provide prayers, and have meals together. This shared experience helps cement our ties as a community and is a valuable reminder of the importance of socialization and the well-being of everybody.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
This honorable month allows us to reflect on our lives, beg for forgiveness for our past wrongdoings, and make resolves. In addition, this time of introspection helps us cleanse our hearts and thoughts and prepare the path for spiritual rejuvenation.
Benefits of Ramadan Fasting
There is more to fasting during Ramadan than merely avoiding food and liquids. But it also offers various benefits that improve our social, physical, and spiritual well-being. What are you waiting for, then? Let's briefly discuss the advantages.
Spiritual Benefits of Ramadan Fasting
Roza reminds us of our reliance on Allah for sustenance, cultivating a sense of God-consciousness. By sacrificing worldly pleasures, we concentrate on deeds of charity, prayer, and Quranic recitation, which brings us closer to God.
Physical Benefits of Ramadan Fasting
Other than physical benefits, many people would equate fasting with poverty, but it has several health advantages. According to medical experts, fasting during Ramadan enhances insulin sensitivity, which lowers the chance of developing type 2 diabetes, offers better heart health, and decreases cholesterol and blood pressure. Fasting can also help detoxify and cellular repair, enhancing general health.
Social Benefits of Ramadan Fasting
Since fasting throughout Ramadan promotes a strong sense of community, let's discuss some social benefits. Muslims enjoy meals together, which fosters a sense of mutual sacrifice and compassion. Muslims strive to assist people in need and thus promote charitable deeds such as Zakat and improve social ties.
Practicalities of Ramadan Fasting
Now that we know the importance and advantages of Roza. Let us review some helpful tips to guarantee an effective and pleasant Ramadan:
Preparation is Key
Do not wait till the last minute! Stock the pantry with nutritious, long-lasting goods for Suhoor and Iftar. In addition, plan your daily routines to include prayer periods and enough rest to maintain energy.
Suhoor Time
This period lets you set the tone for your fast. Now, you have to choose carbohydrates like whole grains and fruits. It will allow you to sustain energy throughout the day, and the more important thing is to stay hydrated before sunrise!
Iftar Time
Use water and salt or dates while breaking the fast as it is the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Moreover, eat a balanced meal rich in nutrition, but avoid excessive consumption.
Staying Hydrated
While we cannot drink water during fasting hours, we can help our bodies retain water by eating hydrating fruits and vegetables during Suhoor and Iftar.
Overcoming Struggles
During a fast, everyone has moments of weakness. Remind yourself of the spiritual benefits and the value of self-control if you feel starving. Remember that you may always try again tomorrow!
Conclusion
Ramadan Fasting stands among the pillars of Islam and lets us cultivate sympathy for those in need, engage in reflection, and grow spiritually. Avoiding materialistic pleasures helps us develop self-control and a closer relationship with Allah. Beyond the advantages to the individual, Roza helps the Muslim community through charitable deeds and offering social relationships. Thus, let's seize this chance for personal growth and spiritual advancement as the holy month of Ramadan draws near.
FAQ'S
How many Ashras are there during Ramadan?
Islam has three Ashras in total, and an Ashra means 10 days. Every ten days has its blessings, such as:
- 1st Ashra offers mercy.
- 2nd Ashra aims to seek forgiveness from Allah.
- 3rd Ashra is salvation from hellfire.
What is the fasting Niyyat for Ramadan?
A genuine commitment to abstaining from food, drink, and certain other activities from dawn to sunset during Ramadan is required to be eligible for Roza. One may express their dedication to maintaining the fast for Allah's sake by an internal formulation of the Niyyat.
What is the best Ramadan Dua?
There are various prays that we can recite in the month of Holy Ramadan, while a few of them are:
إِذَا دَخَلَ شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ فُتِّحَتْ أَبْوَابُ السَّمَاءِ وَغُلِّقَتْ أَبْوَابُ جَهَنَّمَ وَسُلْسِلَتِ الشَّيَاطِين
“When the month of Ramadan enters, the gates of Heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.”
One of the many supplications that we can recite daily during the day and night throughout Ramadan is:
أَشهَدُ أَن لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ الله، أَستَغفِرُ الله، نَسأَلُكَ الجَنَّةَ ونَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ النَّار
"I bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship but Allah, I seek forgiveness from Allah, we ask you (O Allah) for Paradise, and we seek refuge with you from the Hellfire."
Can we fast even if it is not Ramadan?
Yes, without a doubt! Outside of Ramadan, fasting is optional and has spiritual advantages. Simply consult your physician beforehand if you have any medical issues.
