Author: Abu Sadiq Ashiq Ali Athari (Hafizahullah)
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the best of His messengers, the Seal of His prophets, Muhammad, and upon his family, companions, and those who follow them in righteousness until the Day of Judgment. And thereafter,
We have observed that the parts of man-made engines and vehicles become loose due to wear and tear while traversing different terrains. Sometimes, these vehicles suffer significant damage, leading to breakdowns or the need for repairs and maintenance. This is why vehicle manufacturers recommend a scheduled service after a specific period or mileage. Once the maintenance and repairs are completed, the vehicle is ready to resume its duties with renewed efficiency. The same can be said about our lives, which are like a vehicle with the purpose Allah has outlined in the following verse:
"I have not created the jinn and mankind except to worship Me."
(Al-Dhariyat, 51:56)
Just like a vehicle, our lives occasionally slow down due to the deceptions of Satan. We become lethargic, and our spiritual strength weakens, necessitating maintenance and repair. This is why Allah, the All-Knowing and Wise, has designated specific days, nights, places, and times that hold immense blessings and merits. Recognizing their value, especially as believers, we can utilize these times to service our lives, regain spiritual vitality, and engage in worship as Allah intended.
The blessed month of Ramadan is one of these times of immense grace and blessings, a period where, by fasting during the day and engaging in worship, prayers, reciting the Qur’an, and remembering Allah at night, we can break the chains of Satan's hindrances. Through these acts, we can seek forgiveness for past mistakes, achieve piety, and move forward with renewed vigor in worshiping Allah.
"O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you so that you may attain piety. It is for a few numbered days. If any of you is ill or on a journey, then fast an equal number of other days. For those who can fast with difficulty, there is a ransom: feeding a poor person. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for him, and fasting is better for you, if only you knew."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:183-184)
Allah also says:
"The month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). Whoever of you witnesses this month, let him fast it."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
"Islam is built upon five pillars: Testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His servant and messenger, establishing prayer, giving zakat, performing Hajj, and fasting in Ramadan."
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 2, Hadith 8; Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 16-20)
Talha bin Ubaidullah narrated:
"A Bedouin came to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) with unkempt hair and asked, 'O Messenger of Allah! Inform me what Allah has made obligatory upon me regarding prayer.' The Prophet replied, 'The five daily prayers unless you do something extra.' The Bedouin then asked, 'Inform me what Allah has made obligatory upon me regarding fasting.' The Prophet replied, 'Fasting during the month of Ramadan unless you do something extra.' The Bedouin asked about zakat, and the Prophet explained to him the Islamic obligations. The Bedouin then swore, 'By the One who honored you, I will neither do extra nor lessen what Allah has made obligatory upon me.' The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said, 'He will be successful if he is truthful, or he will enter Paradise if he remains honest.'"
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 30, Hadith 1891; Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 8)
There is a unanimous consensus among Islamic scholars that fasting in Ramadan is obligatory, and anyone who denies its obligation is considered a disbeliever, removed from the fold of Islam.
First Stage:
The fast of Ashura (the 10th of Muharram) was initially obligatory. Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated:
"The Prophet (peace be upon him) fasted on the day of Ashura and commanded the people to fast on it as well."
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 30, Hadith 1892; Sahih Muslim, Book 13, Hadith 133-134)
Second Stage:
The fast of Ramadan was then made obligatory, but those who could fast with difficulty were given the option to feed a poor person instead. Allah says:
"And those who can fast with difficulty have a ransom: feeding a poor person. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for him. Fasting is better for you if you only knew."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:184)
Third Stage:
The option to feed a poor person in place of fasting was abolished, and fasting was made compulsory for all who are able. Allah says:
"The month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed... Whoever of you witnesses this month, let him fast it. But if any of you is ill or on a journey, then fast an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend hardship, so that you complete the prescribed period and glorify Allah for having guided you, and perhaps you will be grateful."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
"I have vowed to the Most Merciful a fast, so I will not speak today to any human."
(Maryam, 19:26)
In Islamic law, fasting refers to abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset with the intention of pleasing Allah.
"O you who believe! Fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you, so that you may attain piety (taqwa)."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
Once, the second Caliph Umar bin Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) asked Ubayy bin Ka'b (may Allah be pleased with him) about taqwa. He replied:
"Have you ever walked on a path full of thorns?" Umar said, "Yes." Ubayy asked, "What did you do?" Umar replied, "I gathered my clothes and carefully avoided the thorns." Ubayy said, "That is taqwa."
A poet beautifully expressed this concept:
"Avoid both small and large sins, for that is true piety. Walk through life as if walking on a thorny path, carefully avoiding what you see."
"O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and do not die except as Muslims."
(Al-Imran, 3:102)
"O mankind! Fear your Lord, who created you from a single soul and from it created its mate and spread from them many men and women. Fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and the wombs. Indeed, Allah is ever an observer over you."
(An-Nisa, 4:1)
"O you who believe! Fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice. He will amend for you your deeds and forgive you your sins. And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly attained a great attainment."
(Al-Ahzab, 33:70-71)
Abu Umamah Bahili (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that during the Farewell Sermon, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Fear your Lord, offer your five daily prayers, fast during your month (Ramadan), pay the zakat on your wealth, and obey your leaders. You will enter your Lord's Paradise."
(Al-Anfal, 8:29)
(Al-Mursalat, 77:41-43)
And:“Indeed, the righteous will be in a secure place, within gardens and springs, wearing (garments of) fine silk and brocade, facing each other. Thus it will be. And We will marry them to fair women with large, (beautiful) eyes.”
(Ad-Dukhan, 44:51-54)
Furthermore, Allah says:“Indeed, the righteous will be among gardens and rivers, in a seat of honor near a sovereign, perfect in ability.”
(Al-Qamar, 54:54-55)
The answer to this can be understood through a narration from the Prophet (peace be upon him). Abu Musa (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The example of the guidance and knowledge with which Allah has sent me is like abundant rain that falls on the earth. Some of it is fertile soil that absorbs the water and brings forth vegetation and grass in abundance. Another portion of it is hard land that holds the water and Allah benefits the people through it, and they drink, give to others, and irrigate their crops. Another portion of it is barren land, neither retaining the water nor producing vegetation. This is the example of one who comprehends the religion of Allah and benefits from what Allah has sent me with, learning and teaching others, and the example of the one who does not pay attention to that and does not accept the guidance of Allah.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 3, Hadith 79; Sahih Muslim, Book 15)
In this hadith, the knowledge and guidance that the Prophet (peace be upon him) brought is likened to beneficial rain. Just as rain brings life to the earth, the guidance of the Prophet revives the hearts. Those who benefit from this guidance are compared to fertile soil that grows vegetation, while others who only store the knowledge without benefiting from it themselves are compared to hard ground that holds water. Those who neither benefit nor learn from this guidance are compared to barren land that yields nothing.
Thus, if someone does not show the fruits of fasting after Ramadan, the fault lies not with fasting or Ramadan but with the individual. Just as rain benefits fertile land but does not affect barren land, the blessings of Ramadan only affect those whose hearts are ready to receive them.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Indeed, there is a piece of flesh in the body that, if it is sound, the whole body is sound; and if it is corrupted, the whole body is corrupted. Indeed, it is the heart.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 39, Hadith 52; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1599)
"And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His face (i.e., His pleasure)."
(Al-Kahf, 18:28)
Patience is called "sabr" because it involves restraining the heart from distress, the tongue from complaints, and the limbs from agitation.
"Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account."
(Az-Zumar, 39:10)
"When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1899; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1079)
In another narration, Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:
"When the first night of Ramadan comes, the devils and rebellious jinn are chained, the gates of Hell are closed, and none of its gates are opened. The gates of Paradise are opened, and none of its gates are closed. A caller calls out: 'O seeker of good, proceed; O seeker of evil, desist.' And Allah has those whom He frees from the Fire, and that happens every night."
(Sahih al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 682; Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 1331)
This is why, at the start of Ramadan, many sinners and wrongdoers turn to repentance and seek forgiveness, asking the scholars how to be freed from past sins and mistakes. With sincere repentance, they become devoted servants of Allah, engaging in worship during Ramadan and continuing to do so in the months that follow.
May Allah protect all Muslims from the evils of the devils and make us deserving of Paradise, keeping us far from the punishment of Hell. Ameen.
(Al-Qadr, 97:1-3)
And in another place, Allah says:
"Indeed, We sent it down during a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn [mankind]. On that night, every precise matter is apportioned."
(Ad-Dukhan, 44:3-4)
Some people have mistakenly interpreted the term "blessed night" as referring to the fifteenth night of Sha'ban. However, the correct interpretation is that it refers to Laylatul Qadr, as Allah clearly mentions elsewhere:
"The month of Ramadan in which the Qur'an was revealed."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
(Al-Baqarah, 2:186)
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the best of His messengers, the Seal of His prophets, Muhammad, and upon his family, companions, and those who follow them in righteousness until the Day of Judgment. And thereafter,
We have observed that the parts of man-made engines and vehicles become loose due to wear and tear while traversing different terrains. Sometimes, these vehicles suffer significant damage, leading to breakdowns or the need for repairs and maintenance. This is why vehicle manufacturers recommend a scheduled service after a specific period or mileage. Once the maintenance and repairs are completed, the vehicle is ready to resume its duties with renewed efficiency. The same can be said about our lives, which are like a vehicle with the purpose Allah has outlined in the following verse:
"I have not created the jinn and mankind except to worship Me."
(Al-Dhariyat, 51:56)
Just like a vehicle, our lives occasionally slow down due to the deceptions of Satan. We become lethargic, and our spiritual strength weakens, necessitating maintenance and repair. This is why Allah, the All-Knowing and Wise, has designated specific days, nights, places, and times that hold immense blessings and merits. Recognizing their value, especially as believers, we can utilize these times to service our lives, regain spiritual vitality, and engage in worship as Allah intended.
The blessed month of Ramadan is one of these times of immense grace and blessings, a period where, by fasting during the day and engaging in worship, prayers, reciting the Qur’an, and remembering Allah at night, we can break the chains of Satan's hindrances. Through these acts, we can seek forgiveness for past mistakes, achieve piety, and move forward with renewed vigor in worshiping Allah.
1. The Obligation of Fasting
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam. It is obligatory upon every sane, mature, free or enslaved Muslim, male or female. The obligation to fast in Ramadan was established in 2 AH and is proven by the Qur’an, the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and the consensus of the Ummah. Allah says:"O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you so that you may attain piety. It is for a few numbered days. If any of you is ill or on a journey, then fast an equal number of other days. For those who can fast with difficulty, there is a ransom: feeding a poor person. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for him, and fasting is better for you, if only you knew."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:183-184)
Allah also says:
"The month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). Whoever of you witnesses this month, let him fast it."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
"Islam is built upon five pillars: Testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His servant and messenger, establishing prayer, giving zakat, performing Hajj, and fasting in Ramadan."
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 2, Hadith 8; Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 16-20)
Talha bin Ubaidullah narrated:
"A Bedouin came to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) with unkempt hair and asked, 'O Messenger of Allah! Inform me what Allah has made obligatory upon me regarding prayer.' The Prophet replied, 'The five daily prayers unless you do something extra.' The Bedouin then asked, 'Inform me what Allah has made obligatory upon me regarding fasting.' The Prophet replied, 'Fasting during the month of Ramadan unless you do something extra.' The Bedouin asked about zakat, and the Prophet explained to him the Islamic obligations. The Bedouin then swore, 'By the One who honored you, I will neither do extra nor lessen what Allah has made obligatory upon me.' The Prophet (peace be upon him) then said, 'He will be successful if he is truthful, or he will enter Paradise if he remains honest.'"
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 30, Hadith 1891; Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 8)
There is a unanimous consensus among Islamic scholars that fasting in Ramadan is obligatory, and anyone who denies its obligation is considered a disbeliever, removed from the fold of Islam.
2. The Stages of the Obligation of Fasting
Since Allah is Most Compassionate and Merciful, fully aware of human conditions and weaknesses, the obligation to fast for the entire month of Ramadan was not imposed all at once. Instead, it was gradually introduced through several stages to ease the burden on believers:First Stage:
The fast of Ashura (the 10th of Muharram) was initially obligatory. Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) narrated:
"The Prophet (peace be upon him) fasted on the day of Ashura and commanded the people to fast on it as well."
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 30, Hadith 1892; Sahih Muslim, Book 13, Hadith 133-134)
Second Stage:
The fast of Ramadan was then made obligatory, but those who could fast with difficulty were given the option to feed a poor person instead. Allah says:
"And those who can fast with difficulty have a ransom: feeding a poor person. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for him. Fasting is better for you if you only knew."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:184)
Third Stage:
The option to feed a poor person in place of fasting was abolished, and fasting was made compulsory for all who are able. Allah says:
"The month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed... Whoever of you witnesses this month, let him fast it. But if any of you is ill or on a journey, then fast an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend hardship, so that you complete the prescribed period and glorify Allah for having guided you, and perhaps you will be grateful."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
3. Meaning of Fasting (Sawm)
The linguistic meaning of fasting (Sawm) is to refrain from something. Allah mentions in the Qur'an, describing the words of Maryam (peace be upon her):"I have vowed to the Most Merciful a fast, so I will not speak today to any human."
(Maryam, 19:26)
In Islamic law, fasting refers to abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset with the intention of pleasing Allah.
4. Purpose of Fasting
In the Qur’an, Allah not only prescribes fasting but also explains its purpose:"O you who believe! Fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you, so that you may attain piety (taqwa)."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
5. Definition of Piety (Taqwa)
The word "taqwa" comes from "wiqayah," meaning to protect or safeguard. In this context, it means adhering to Allah's commands and avoiding His prohibitions. The early generations of Muslims (the Salaf) explained taqwa in various ways. Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said, "The pious are those who avoid Allah's punishment." Ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) said, "Taqwa means obeying Allah and avoiding disobedience to Him."Once, the second Caliph Umar bin Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) asked Ubayy bin Ka'b (may Allah be pleased with him) about taqwa. He replied:
"Have you ever walked on a path full of thorns?" Umar said, "Yes." Ubayy asked, "What did you do?" Umar replied, "I gathered my clothes and carefully avoided the thorns." Ubayy said, "That is taqwa."
A poet beautifully expressed this concept:
"Avoid both small and large sins, for that is true piety. Walk through life as if walking on a thorny path, carefully avoiding what you see."
6. The Command for Piety in the Qur’an and Sunnah
Given the importance of piety, Allah has emphasized its command in many places in the Qur'an, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the righteous predecessors have similarly stressed its importance. The following are a few of the Qur'anic verses often recited by the Prophet (peace be upon him) during sermons, particularly in weddings, admonishments, and other important occasions:"O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and do not die except as Muslims."
(Al-Imran, 3:102)
"O mankind! Fear your Lord, who created you from a single soul and from it created its mate and spread from them many men and women. Fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and the wombs. Indeed, Allah is ever an observer over you."
(An-Nisa, 4:1)
"O you who believe! Fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice. He will amend for you your deeds and forgive you your sins. And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly attained a great attainment."
(Al-Ahzab, 33:70-71)
Abu Umamah Bahili (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that during the Farewell Sermon, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Fear your Lord, offer your five daily prayers, fast during your month (Ramadan), pay the zakat on your wealth, and obey your leaders. You will enter your Lord's Paradise."
7. Fruits of Taqwa (Piety)
Through taqwa, a person becomes deserving of numerous benefits and rewards both in this world and the Hereafter. Some of these include:- Taqwa brings ease in all affairs:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“And whoever fears Allah, He will make his matters easy for him.”
(Al-Talaq, 65:4)
And He also says:“As for he who gives (in charity) and fears Allah, and believes in the best, We will ease him toward ease.”
(Al-Layl, 92:5-7) - Taqwa opens the doors of provision and blessings from the heavens and the earth:
Allah, the Most High, says:“If only the people of the cities had believed and feared Allah, We would have opened to them blessings from the heavens and the earth; but they denied (the messengers), so We seized them for what they were earning.”
(Al-A'raf, 7:96)
And Allah says:“And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect.”
(Al-Talaq, 65:2-3) - Taqwa leads to divine assistance and success:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“O you who have believed, if you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion (to distinguish between right and wrong).”
(Al-Anfal, 8:29)
And He also says:“O you who have believed, fear Allah and believe in His Messenger; He will give you a double portion of His mercy and make for you a light by which you will walk and forgive you; and Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”
(Al-Hadid, 57:28) - Taqwa earns Allah’s guardianship and friendship:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“And indeed, the wrongdoers are allies of one another, but Allah is the ally of the righteous.”
(Al-Jathiya, 45:19) - Taqwa is a shield from the evil and deception of disbelievers and enemies:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“If good touches you, it distresses them; but if harm strikes you, they rejoice at it. And if you are patient and fear Allah, their plot will not harm you at all. Indeed, Allah is encompassing of what they do.”
(Al-Imran, 3:120) - Taqwa is the means to gain knowledge:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“And fear Allah, and Allah will teach you.”
(Al-Baqarah, 2:282) - Taqwa leads to receiving Allah’s mercy:
Allah, the Most High, says:“My mercy encompasses all things. So I will decree it (especially) for those who fear Me and give zakat and those who believe in Our verses.”
(Al-A'raf, 7:156) - Taqwa brings glad tidings and peace of mind in this world and the Hereafter:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“Unquestionably, for the allies of Allah there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve. They are those who believed and were fearing Allah. For them are good tidings in the worldly life and in the Hereafter.”
(Yunus, 10:62-64) - Taqwa is a cause for Allah’s love:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“Yes, whoever fulfills his commitment and fears Allah – then indeed, Allah loves the righteous.”
(Al-Imran, 3:76)
And He also says:“Indeed, Allah loves the righteous.”
(At-Tawbah, 9:4) - Taqwa brings the companionship of Allah:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“And fear Allah and know that Allah is with those who fear Him.”
(Al-Baqarah, 2:194)
- Taqwa is a means of expiation of sins and forgiveness:
Allah, the Most High, says:“That is the command of Allah, which He has sent down to you; and whoever fears Allah – He will remove from him his misdeeds and make great for him his reward.”
(Al-Talaq, 65:5)
(Al-Anfal, 8:29)
- Taqwa is a means to attain eternal bliss in the Hereafter:
Allah, the Almighty, says:“Indeed, for the righteous is attainment: gardens and grapevines and full-breasted (companions) of equal age and a full cup. No ill speech will they hear therein, nor any falsehood – (as) reward from your Lord, (a generous) gift (made due by) account.”
(An-Naba, 78:31-36)
(Al-Mursalat, 77:41-43)
And:“Indeed, the righteous will be in a secure place, within gardens and springs, wearing (garments of) fine silk and brocade, facing each other. Thus it will be. And We will marry them to fair women with large, (beautiful) eyes.”
(Ad-Dukhan, 44:51-54)
Furthermore, Allah says:“Indeed, the righteous will be among gardens and rivers, in a seat of honor near a sovereign, perfect in ability.”
(Al-Qamar, 54:54-55)
8. Clarification of a Common Doubt
Some may question why, despite fasting throughout Ramadan, there appears to be no visible change in some people's lives. Their behavior and lifestyle before Ramadan seem to persist even after fasting. How can this be reconciled with the objective of fasting, which is to cultivate taqwa and piety?The answer to this can be understood through a narration from the Prophet (peace be upon him). Abu Musa (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The example of the guidance and knowledge with which Allah has sent me is like abundant rain that falls on the earth. Some of it is fertile soil that absorbs the water and brings forth vegetation and grass in abundance. Another portion of it is hard land that holds the water and Allah benefits the people through it, and they drink, give to others, and irrigate their crops. Another portion of it is barren land, neither retaining the water nor producing vegetation. This is the example of one who comprehends the religion of Allah and benefits from what Allah has sent me with, learning and teaching others, and the example of the one who does not pay attention to that and does not accept the guidance of Allah.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 3, Hadith 79; Sahih Muslim, Book 15)
In this hadith, the knowledge and guidance that the Prophet (peace be upon him) brought is likened to beneficial rain. Just as rain brings life to the earth, the guidance of the Prophet revives the hearts. Those who benefit from this guidance are compared to fertile soil that grows vegetation, while others who only store the knowledge without benefiting from it themselves are compared to hard ground that holds water. Those who neither benefit nor learn from this guidance are compared to barren land that yields nothing.
Thus, if someone does not show the fruits of fasting after Ramadan, the fault lies not with fasting or Ramadan but with the individual. Just as rain benefits fertile land but does not affect barren land, the blessings of Ramadan only affect those whose hearts are ready to receive them.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Indeed, there is a piece of flesh in the body that, if it is sound, the whole body is sound; and if it is corrupted, the whole body is corrupted. Indeed, it is the heart.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 39, Hadith 52; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1599)
9. Virtues of the Month of Ramadan
Allah has granted the month of Ramadan superiority over the other months of the year in several ways:- It is the month of the revelation of the Qur'an:
The Qur'an, the final and most comprehensive book of guidance for humanity, was revealed in this blessed month. Allah says:“The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for mankind and clear proofs of the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong).”
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
The Qur'an was first revealed from the Preserved Tablet (Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz) to the lowest heaven on the Night of Decree in Ramadan, and from there, it was revealed gradually to the Prophet (peace be upon him) over 23 years. As Allah says:“Indeed, We sent it down during the Night of Decree.”
(Al-Qadr, 97:1)
And:“Indeed, We sent it down on a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn (mankind).”
(Ad-Dukhan, 44:3) - It is the month of reviewing and reciting the Qur’an:
The relationship between the Qur'an and Ramadan is so strong that the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to review the Qur'an with Angel Jibril every Ramadan. In the year of the Prophet's death, Jibril reviewed the Qur'an with him twice. Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated:
“The Prophet (peace be upon him) confided to me, saying, ‘Jibril used to review the Qur'an with me once every year, but this year he reviewed it with me twice, and I think this indicates my approaching death.’”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 66, Hadith 4998; Sahih Muslim, Book 44)
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated:
“Jibril used to review the Qur’an with the Prophet once a year, but he reviewed it with him twice in the year he died. The Prophet would observe i'tikaf (seclusion for worship) for ten days every year, but he observed it for twenty days in the year of his death.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 4998) - It is the month of patience:
Fasting trains a person in patience by restraining oneself from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset. This is why the Prophet (peace be upon him) referred to Ramadan as the month of patience. Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated:
“I heard the Prophet (peace be upon him) say, ‘The month of patience (Ramadan) and three days of fasting every month are equivalent to fasting for a lifetime.’”
(Sahih Abu Dawud, Hadith 2425; Sahih Ibn Majah, Hadith 1386)
10. Meaning of Patience (Sabr)
In its linguistic sense, sabr means to restrain or hold back. For example, it is said, "فلان قُتِلَ صَبْرًا," meaning someone was killed while being restrained. Allah, the Almighty, says:"And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His face (i.e., His pleasure)."
(Al-Kahf, 18:28)
Patience is called "sabr" because it involves restraining the heart from distress, the tongue from complaints, and the limbs from agitation.
11. Types of Patience
There are three types of patience:- Patience in obeying Allah
- Patience in refraining from what Allah has forbidden
- Patience in facing the trials and tribulations decreed by Allah
"Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account."
(Az-Zumar, 39:10)
- In Ramadan, the gates of Paradise are opened, and the gates of Hellfire are closed, while the devils are chained:
"When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1899; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1079)
In another narration, Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:
"When the first night of Ramadan comes, the devils and rebellious jinn are chained, the gates of Hell are closed, and none of its gates are opened. The gates of Paradise are opened, and none of its gates are closed. A caller calls out: 'O seeker of good, proceed; O seeker of evil, desist.' And Allah has those whom He frees from the Fire, and that happens every night."
(Sahih al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 682; Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 1331)
This is why, at the start of Ramadan, many sinners and wrongdoers turn to repentance and seek forgiveness, asking the scholars how to be freed from past sins and mistakes. With sincere repentance, they become devoted servants of Allah, engaging in worship during Ramadan and continuing to do so in the months that follow.
May Allah protect all Muslims from the evils of the devils and make us deserving of Paradise, keeping us far from the punishment of Hell. Ameen.
- It is the month of Laylatul Qadr (Night of Decree):
This blessed month contains Laylatul Qadr, a night that is better than a thousand months. Allah, the Most High, says:
(Al-Qadr, 97:1-3)
And in another place, Allah says:
"Indeed, We sent it down during a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn [mankind]. On that night, every precise matter is apportioned."
(Ad-Dukhan, 44:3-4)
Some people have mistakenly interpreted the term "blessed night" as referring to the fifteenth night of Sha'ban. However, the correct interpretation is that it refers to Laylatul Qadr, as Allah clearly mentions elsewhere:
"The month of Ramadan in which the Qur'an was revealed."
(Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
- It is the month of answered supplications:
Ramadan is not only a time for worship but also for answered prayers. There is a deep connection between Ramadan and supplication (dua). While explaining the rulings of Ramadan, Allah, the Almighty, mentions the importance of supplication:
(Al-Baqarah, 2:186)
12. Virtues of Fasting
The virtues of fasting are immense. When a person fulfills the obligation of fasting, they become free of their responsibility and beloved to Allah, the Almighty. In addition to this, several other virtues of fasting are listed below to encourage the spirit of fasting:- Fasting is a shield against base desires:
Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
"O young people! Whoever among you can marry should do so, as it helps him lower his gaze and guard his modesty. Whoever cannot marry should fast, as fasting will diminish his desire."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1905; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1400) - Fasting is a shield against the Hellfire:
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said that Allah, the Most High, said:
"All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except for fasting; it is for Me, and I will reward for it. Fasting is a shield, so when one of you is fasting, let him not engage in foul speech or loud behavior. If someone insults him or fights with him, let him say, 'I am fasting.' By the One in whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, the smell of the mouth of the fasting person is more pleasant to Allah than the scent of musk. The fasting person has two joys: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord, and he will be happy with his fast."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1904; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1151)
In another narration, Allah says:
"He leaves his desires and food for My sake."
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1151)
Jaber (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the Fire."
(Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 3867) - Fasting will intercede on the Day of Judgment:
Abdullah bin Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Fasting and the Qur'an will intercede for the servant on the Day of Judgment. Fasting will say: 'O Lord, I prevented him from food and desires during the day, so let me intercede for him.' And the Qur'an will say: 'I prevented him from sleeping at night, so let me intercede for him.' Thus, they will both intercede."
(Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 174; Sahih al-Targhib, Hadith 969) - Fasting is a means of expiation of sins:
Allah, the Most High, has placed a special quality in fasting and other righteous deeds, which wipe away sins, as He says:
"Indeed, good deeds do away with misdeeds."
(Hud, 11:114)
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"The five daily prayers, from one Jumu'ah to the next, and from one Ramadan to the next, are expiations for whatever (minor sins) come in between, as long as major sins are avoided."
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 16)
And Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) also narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward, all of his previous sins will be forgiven."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1901; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 760)
Hudaifah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"The trials a man faces in relation to his family, wealth, and neighbors are expiated by prayer, fasting, and charity."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1895; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 144) - Fasting grants a special door in Paradise for those who fast:
Those who fast will enter Paradise through a special door called "Ar-Rayyan." Sahl bin Sa'd (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"In Paradise, there is a door called 'Ar-Rayyan,' through which those who fast will enter on the Day of Resurrection, and no one but them will enter through it. It will be said, 'Where are those who fasted?' They will stand up, and none but them will enter through it. When they have entered, it will be locked, and no one else will enter through it."
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 1896; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1152)
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