Ramadan is set to begin on Thursday, March 23 for Muslims across the world. Considered as one of the Holiest months of the year, Ramadan prompts followers of Islam to abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset each day for a month.
By doing so, Muslims will be fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam. The other four pillars include Prayer, Hajj (pilgrimage), Shahada (the profession of faith) and Zakat (giving alms).
While Ramadan calls for fasting, it is not just dedicated to the Holy month. Devotees of Islam also choose to fast on Monday and Thursday, as per the Prophet’s recommendation, as well as on Arafat Day and the day before Eid Al-Adha.
Aside from fasting, Muslims must also refrain from other acts that are considered unholy. These include lying or swearing.
The Holy month also requires Muslims to main increased patience and tolerance for a successful Ramadan, as this directly contributes to self-discipline.
Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
Muslims who are able to fast can understand and empathise with the less fortunate, by abstaining from food, drink and other unholy acts.
In terms of faith, it is believed that fasting draws people closer to God. Fasting also helps one think beyond their impulses and focus on issues that fill the soul instead.
Fasting was first revealed to Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) through verses from the Quran, during the second year of the Hijri calendar. This was also the year Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) moved from Makkah to Madinah.
“Oh you who believe! Prescribed for you is the Fast, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may deserve God’s protection (against the temptations of your carnal soul) and attain piety,” the Quran says.
Right from then, fasting became a norm during Ramadan for all Muslims, except in certain circumstances. These include when Muslims:
- are sick,
- are travelling long distances,
- are menstruating,
- are pregnant,
- or, if they have not reached puberty yet.
Benefits of fasting during Ramadan
According to a blog post by one of UAE’s largest healthcare operators Burjeel, fasting during Ramadan comes with numerous benefits. These include:
- Reduces hypertension
- Increases brain function
- Improves body composition
- Fasting reduces cancer risk
- Stimulates autophagy
- Lowers inflammation
- Regulates sleep patterns
- Normalises ghrelin levels
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