Friday 02-06-2017 - 12:27

Muslims all over the world are currently observing Ramadhan. Here, Islamic Society member Muhammad Iesa Asif gives a personal view of the importance of the holy month.

As-Salaam-Alaikum students (peace be upon you),

It’s that time of the year again when Muslims all over the world are participating in the fasting month of Ramadhan! In this holy month, we go without food and drink from dawn to sunset, we recite the Quran, give to charity and engage in other acts of worship. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam – Saum and it is incumbent on all able-bodied Muslims. Therefore, those unfit to observe the fasting month for example due to medical reasons or old age, are required to give to charity instead. I personally see this special month as an opportunity to develop self-discipline, rejuvenate spirituality, and better myself in every possible way.

There is so much more to the act of fasting than the physical hunger and thirst. The Qur’an cites the purpose of fasting in this Holy month in Surah Al-Baqarah with the phrase la’allakum tattaqun, which in context means: “perhaps you can attain Taqwa (God consciousness)”. For me, consciousness of God encourages mastery of the soul and leads to the softness of the heart. In this month, Muslims make conscious efforts to avoid disliked actions, such as lying, backbiting and arguing and instead reconcile with their kin and friends, forgive those who have wronged them and practice patience. Thus the purpose of fasting is not simply to stay away from food and drink; rather the aim behind fasting is to increase Taqwa, which in turn purifies our hearts.

For me this is a time of deep reflection. In Ramadhan, I feel the hunger and thirst – all I can hear is my stomach rumbling. However, my heart is in control of my body. When my heart limits my stomach’s desire for food and drink, it reminds me to show gratitude to God for all the basic pleasures I often take for granted in this life. As I become more and more thankful throughout the holy month, my attachment to material items also crumbles. I realise these are not essential to keeping me happy. True contentment I find comes from the spiritual nourishment and the sense of community I feel when I pray and break my fasts at the Masjid. Thus, the purpose of fasting is to practice patience, eliminate bad habits and improve spiritual virtues.

As a student, I know times are hard during the exam season but fasting helps me to realise that the blessing is in the struggle.