WELCOMING THE MONTH OF RAMADAN: VIRTUES OF FASTING

Allāh (The Mighty & Majestic) orders us to fast out of gratitude for the blessing of the Qurʾān. Allāh (Glorified& Exalted) sent down the Qurʾān in a clear Arabic language which will last in the ʾUmmah of Muḥammad (May Allāh elevate his rank & grant him peace) until Allāh wills.His ʾUmmah will reflect over the events mentioned in the Qurʾān, abstract rulings from it, come to understand about its lessons, and seek a ruling from it when differences occur. Allāh (Glorified & Exalted) says, “And in whatsoever you differ, the decision thereof is with Allāh (He is the ruling Judge).” [Sūrah ash-Shūrā 42:10]Allāh (The Mighty & Majestic) gave preference to this month by sending the Qurʾān in this month as well as ordering fasting and the night prayer. Fasting during the day and praying at night. Allāh (Glorified & Exalted) informs us in the same verse that He only wants ease for the ʾUmmah of Muḥammad (May Allāh elevate his rank & grant him peace), not hardship. So, He has made easy for them to perform this obligation collectively. Because of this, they prepare themselves for it. Ramaḍān arrives while they are prepared for it and collectively becomes lightened for them. The Prophet (May Allāh elevate his rank & grant him peace) said, “Whoever fasts during Ramaḍān out of faith and in the hope of reward will be forgiven his previous sins; and whoever spends the Night of Qadr in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins.”