"O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you —so perhaps you will become mindful 'of Allah'. (Qur’an 2:183)

Fasting has been made obligatory upon the Muslim Ummah, just as it was obligatory upon previous nations. That's why fasting is observed in various forms across all religions. This is why Allah has mandated this worship in every era. Undoubtedly, fasting is the best practice for nurturing the soul, instilling self-discipline, and repeatedly reminding us that we are not slaves to our desires, but rather servants of Allah. We must follow the path He has shown us and be accountable for our actions.

The fundamental purpose of fasting is to attain Taqwa. Taqwa, derived from the root letters wa-ka-ya means to protect oneself and refrain from wrongdoing. It essentially denotes a state of consciousness about sins and disobedience, fostering a living awareness and sensitivity towards them while adhering to divine commandments. Taqwa has both external and internal dimensions, and it is indispensable for the development of a person's character and conduct.
External taqwa is manifested through our manner, attitude, conduct, and dress code, while internal taqwa involves the fear of Allah, the awareness of His accountability, and the commitment to fulfilling His commands.

Human beings consist of a physical body and a spiritual essence, and maintaining a balance between the two is crucial. When a person controls their hunger, thirst, and carnal desires, it's as if they are mastering their physical self. For the greatest weakness of humans lies in their hunger, thirst, and carnal desires. Fasting, therefore, serves as a means of disciplining the self, preparing it for higher purposes. It makes it easier for humans to adhere to the commandments of the Quran. Fasting essentially protects humans from evils and prohibitions, igniting a fear of the Divine and instilling patience and perseverance within them.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever fasts with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari)

The revelation of the Quran also occurred in Ramadan, which serves as guidance and mercy for all humanity.

"O mankind, there has come to you instruction from your Lord and healing for what is in the breasts and guidance and mercy for the believers." (Quran, Surah Yunus, 10:57)

Say, "In the bounty of Allah and in His mercy - in that let them rejoice; it is better than what they accumulate".(Quran, Surah Yunus, 10:58)

Upon reflection, it becomes evident that Ramadan, the Quran, and piety are deeply interconnected. The virtue of Ramadan stems from the Quran, and the Quran's revelation during Ramadan distinguishes it from other months.

"The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it." (Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)

Every command of Allah is based on His perfect knowledge, and His wisdom is inherent in every command. Similarly, the interconnection of Ramadan, fasting, and piety is like a set watch, whose all parts are integrated and functioning together. Worship activities mutually reinforce the believer's faith and elevate them towards spiritual excellence.

Ramadan is a month of continuous training and purification of the soul. The Quran, as a source of guidance, influences our practical, moral, and spiritual lives. Therefore, we do not succumb to external difficulties but strive to overcome our inner weaknesses. Just as wearing good shoes helps navigate rough terrain, but if there's a stone inside the shoe, it becomes difficult to cross. Same way fasting prepares us for the challenges of life. Fasting prepares us for this great journey, allowing us to purify and discipline ourselves. The ultimate aim of discipline is to abandon vices and embrace virtues.

According to the narration of Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever does not give up false statements and evil deeds, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

The revelation of the Quran in Ramadan is a manifestation of Allah's boundless mercy, providing humanity with the guiding light and distinguishing between truth and falsehood. Let us pray that this blessed Ramadan becomes the best Ramadan of our lives, igniting a passion for the Quran within us. Let us engage in more acts of empathy, sharing the sorrows of others, and diligently implementing the teachings of the Quran in our lives.

May we benefit fully from the blessings of the month of Ramdaan. Ameen!images - 2024-02-29T100610.929.jpgimages - 2024-02-29T100624.017.jpg