The Essence of Fasting: Beyond Abstinence

Introduction

As we approach the blessed month of Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection and renewal, it is pertinent to delve into the deeper meanings of fasting. This week’s Hadith, a saying from Imam Ali (peace be upon him), sheds light on the true essence of fasting, reminding us that it is not merely abstaining from food and drink, but also from all that is forbidden.

الإمامُ عليٌّ علیه السلام: الصِّيامُ اجتِنابُ المَحارِمِ كما يَمتَنِعُ الرجُلُ مِن الطَّعامِ و الشَّرابِ (بحار الأنوار: ۹۶/۲۹۴/۲۱)

Imam Ali (peace be upon him) said: “Fasting is avoiding that which Allah has forbidden, just as one abstains from food and drink.” (Bihar al-Anwar: 96/294/21)

Here are some educational messages derived from this Hadith, tailored to different groups in Muslim communities:

Messages for Teenagers and Young Adults

i. Valuing the Act of Fasting:

It is crucial to recognise the significance of fasting as a fundamental pillar of Islam. Living in non-Islamic countries can present challenges, but it should not deter you from observing this important act of worship.

Practical Challenge: Create a support group with friends to encourage each other during Ramadan, sharing experiences and tips for maintaining focus.

ii. Reflecting on the Philosophy of Fasting:

Take time to ponder the purposes and benefits of fasting. Engage in discussions with friends and elders to deepen your understanding and exchange your ideas. Use the Hadith above as one of the resources for your enriching your discussions.

Practical Challenge: Keep a Ramadan journal, writing down your thoughts and reflections on the spiritual aspects of fasting.

Messages for Parents

i. Creating a Spiritual Atmosphere at Home:

Transform your home during Ramadan into a haven of spirituality. Engage in activities such as reciting the Quran, performing congregational prayers, and hosting iftar gatherings. It’s important to truly engage your children and family members in all of these activities.

Practical Challenge: Establish a daily family Quran reading session, where each member takes turns reading and reflecting on the verses and sharing their own experiences around what they recite in the Holy Quran.

ii. Educating Children About True Fasting:

Explain to your children that true fasting involves abstaining from sins, not just food and drink.

Practical Challenge: Initiate family discussions about ethical behaviour and good manners, emphasising their importance during Ramadan.

iii. Being a Role Model:

Set a positive example for your children by demonstrating self-control and avoiding sinful and unethical behaviour during Ramadan.

Practical Challenge: Actively participate in charitable activities with your children, teaching them the importance of generosity and compassion.

Messages for Friday Prayer Leaders and Religious Scholars

i. Raising Awareness About the Essence of Fasting:

Religious leaders must educate their congregations that true fasting transcends physical abstinence, encompassing moral and ethical purity; they should guide people to understand the inner essence of worship, fostering behavioural change. During Ramadan, they should actively engage in discussions and Q&A sessions to clarify these concepts, serving as practical examples themselves. Furthermore, they should strive to connect the spiritual practice of fasting with its tangible impact on social justice and community well-being.

Practical Challenge: Dedicate a series of sermons during Ramadan to exploring the various aspects of spiritual fasting, providing practical guidance for self-improvement.

ii. The Inner Fast: Cultivating Moral Accountability

Religious leaders must guide their communities toward an inward fasting, emphasising self-reflection and the purification of the heart from hidden sins. They should foster an environment of collective accountability, where individuals support each other in abstaining from forbidden actions. This approach transforms Ramadan into a period of deep moral and ethical refinement, beyond mere physical abstinence.

Practical Challenge: Design a series of weekly workshops during Ramadan that focus on specific ethical challenges, such as controlling anger, avoiding gossip, or practicing honesty. Each workshop should include guided self-reflection exercises, strategies for overcoming these challenges, and opportunities for participants to share their experiences. Encourage attendees to maintain a daily journal tracking their progress in abstaining from these specific sins, fostering a tangible sense of accountability and growth.