The Virtues of the Month of Ramadan are many, making it a truly blessed time for Muslims. It is the third pillar of Islam, a cornerstone that holds together the very foundation of the faith. As Allah SW has decreed, fasting during this month brings benefits not only in this life but also in the hereafter. One of the most powerful aspects of Ramadan is its ability to build spiritual strength. Just like the pillars of a building, Ramadan strengthens our connection with Allah and with each other, allowing us to renew our faith.
In Ramadan, every Muslim is given the opportunity to become more connected with the Prophet Muhammad, following his example in both worship and character. The month is a reminder of Allah’s mercy, offering excuses for those who may be unable to fast due to illness or other reasons, ensuring that no one’s faith falls apart. It is through this spiritual practice that we gain a deeper understanding of self-control, gratitude, and the virtues of patience, ultimately preparing ourselves for a life of blessing both in this world and the next. Our Courses also reflect this spirit, helping individuals grow spiritually and ethically, drawing inspiration from the profound teachings of Ramadan.
Spiritual and Material Benefits of Fasting
Fasting brings both material and spiritual benefits that are proven by scientific evidence. It is a practice that not only inhibits food and drink but also allows the digestive system to rest and recover, helping protect the body from complications that may arise in older age. When done properly, fasting for 12 hours gives the body a break, preventing the harmful effects of stuffing the stomach and struggling to breathe. Health benefits are clear, as fasting helps cleanse the body and improve overall well-being. The reason fasting is mandated by Allah for Muslims is to encourage self-control, and the prophet, PMBUH, emphasized its value in the hadith found in At-Tirmidhi.
Through fasting, the son of Adam learns discipline, filling the stomach not too much, leaving room for breathing, and avoiding the trap of gluttony. When we follow this correctly, we benefit not only in the material sense but also in spiritual reward. Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan, as A’ishah, R.A reported, were performed by the prophet regularly, even year-long. Eleven raka’at of night prayer help to earn greater reward for optional deeds, encouraging us to seek even more than what is obligatory. Maghreb salah marks the end of a fasting day, helping the Muslim to reflect on the reward promised by Allah. This same discipline and focus can also help with How to Memorize the Holy Quran, as both require dedication and structured commitment to achieve lasting success.
Supplication in Ramadan
During Ramadan, the Prophet PMBUH emphasized the power of du’aa or supplication, highlighting that every Muslim has a chance to make a supplication that will be granted by Allah. As Imam Ahmad recorded, Allah frees many from the Fire in this blessed month. Every good deed is rewarded manifold, with each one earning up to seven hundred times its worth, but fasting is unique. Allah, the Highest, has reserved its recompense for Himself, rewarding the fasting person in a way that no one can truly comprehend. When we break our fast, the joy is immense, but the true reward comes when we meet our Lord, with the smell of the fasting person’s mouth being sweeter to Allah than musk. Salah and the Qur’an are also central to this month, helping us draw closer to Allah and receive His endless reward.
The Conditions That Break the Fast and the Blessings of Ramadan
During Ramadan, the fast can be nullified by food, drink, or even intercourse with a spouse. Ejaculation, vitamins, and other forms of nourishment like money or anything that brings satiety can also break the fast. Smoking is another act that will nullify fasting. However, it’s important to remember that the virtues of Ramadan go beyond just fasting. The month offers countless benefits, with a sense of abstinence from food and drink allowing the body to rest. Mental fulfillment comes from the act of fasting itself, and Allah has blessed this month with special blessings. Even injections for treatment or illnesses that do not induce satiety do not break the fast. The Siwak and toothbrush do not nullify fasting either, as they don’t interfere with the core purpose. In Ramadan, each act of worship has a reward, as Allah, the Lord of the world, showers His peace and blessing upon the Messenger PMBUH and those who sincerely fast.