WHY DO MUSLIMS FAST? Some of the wisdoms behind fasting and what a Muslim ought to seek through fasting - Shaykh al- Fawzan. - by Abu IyaadSP (A beautiful short reminder)

Why Do Muslims Fast?

Muslims have been commanded with fasting during the month of Ramaḍān: “O you believe! Fasting is prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you in order that you may become righteous (pious).” (Qurʾān 2:183). 

Shaykh Ṣāliḥ al-Fawzān explains the primary wisdom:

“The  wisdom behind the legislation  of fasting is apparent, due to His saying: “…that you may become righteous (pious)” because it prevents the soul from its desires and from eating, drinking and intercourse. These affairs lead the souls to heedlessness and transgression… fasting weakens and leads to piety and humility before Allāh.” Then he mentions a second wisdom: “It reminds a person of his (or her) weakness and need of Allāh.” This is because a person cannot survive without food and water, and these only come to him through the provision of Allāh who has placed material causes and effects through which humans (and others) are sustained. Hence, all creatures are in need of their creator.

Then he explains a third wisdom: “it reminds a person of the one who granted him the favour of food and drink and of whatever else He permitted for him. ” This inculcates gratefulness within a person who ought to be thankful for these favours.

Then, he explains a fourth wisdom: “It reminds him of the condition of the needy and dependent when he tastes hunger and is afflicted with thirst. When he is touched by need, it reminds him of the needy and hence shows compassion towards them.”

As for the health benefits, then a Muslim is not motivated by them at all. They are secondary and are blessings which arise due to obedience to the Creator. They are not sought in and of themselves. Many non Muslims have started to adopt the fasting of the Muslims (such as what is done two days a week for example) for health reasons. However, Muslims are not motivated by worldly considerations, they seek piety and righteousness through fasting, desiring nothing but perfection and refinements of morals and character.

Refer to Sharḥ Bulūgh al-Marʾām of Shaykh al- Fawzān (3/195-196).

@abuiyaadsp 2 Ramaḍān 1438 / 28 May 2017

Written &Translated by Abu Iyād Amjad Rafiq  (hafithahullāh)

Originally published on 28/5/2017 @ 8:55 PM