Fasting in Islam: Definition, Meaning and More ๐
Definition and Concept
Fasting, known as Sawm (ุตูููู ), is an essential act of worship in Islam. It entails abstention from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn to sunset, primarily during the month of Ramadan. This act is seen as a means to attain spiritual purification and self-discipline, enhancing the consciousness of the presence of Allah and encouraging gratitude for His provisions.
Etymology
The Arabic word “ุตูููู ” (Sawm) or “ุตูููุงู ” (Siyam) directly translates to “abstinence.” The term encompasses not just the physical act of abstention, but also a heightened spiritual awareness and discipline.
Background and Significance
Ramadan
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred time during which all adult Muslims are required to fast. This month commemorates the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During daylight hours, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in sexual activities. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, followed by Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal before resuming the fast.
Exemptions and Concessions
Certain groups are exempted from fasting, including:
- Children before puberty
- The elderly or those with severe medical illness
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Travelers
- Women during menstruation or post-natal bleeding
These individuals are encouraged to make up missed days after Ramadan or, in some cases, feed a poor person as compensation.
Voluntary Fasts
Apart from Ramadan, Islam recommends several other voluntary fasts, including:
- Fast of Ashura: On the 10th day of Muharram.
- Six days in Shawwal: The month following Ramadan.
- Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays.
- Three days each lunar month.
Historical Fasts
- Ashura (10th Muharram): Originally observed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) due to its significance in both pre-Islamic and Jewish traditions.
- Battles and Events: The Battle of Badr, an important victory for early Muslims, took place during Ramadan.
Cultural Impact and Variations
While the core practice of Ramadan fasting remains consistent, cultural practices around meals like Iftar and Suhoor vary greatly among different Muslim-majority regions.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Iftar (ุฅูููุทูุงุฑ): The meal with which the fast is broken at sunset.
- Suhoor (ุณูุญููุฑ): The pre-dawn meal before starting the fast.
- Kaffarah (ูููููุงุฑูุฉ): Expiatory fasting for certain transgressions.
Inspirational Quotes
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” - Quran 2:183
“Fasting is a shield. It will protect you from the hellfire and prevent you from sins.” - Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Sahih Bukhari
Literature and Further Studies
- “Fast of Ramadan” by Ali Hafiz: A comprehensive guide on the significance and practice of fasting.
- **“The Illuminated Ramadan” โ A collection of Ramadan essays by contemporary scholars.
- The Essentials of Islamic Rituals and Practices by Yusuf Derrouich.
We hope this lexicon entry about fasting in Islam has been both educational and thought-provoking. As we progress along our spiritual pathways, letโs remember there’s profound strength in self-discipline. Reflect on fasting as more than abstention but a bridge towards spiritual consciousness and connectedness.
Hamed Farooq Published on October 3, 2023
“Fasting is not just a trial of abstinence, but a quest to purify the soul, to connect deeply with the divine, and develop empathy for the less fortunate.” - Hamed Farooq
