At present, nearly two billion human beings on planet earth are counted among the Islamic faith, and fasting in Ramadan is a unique annual event shared by a large percentage of Muslims in what is undoubtedly one of the most profound global spiritual experiences in the world.
Why do Muslims observe fasting in Ramadan, and what are some of the benefits of fasting in Ramadan?
While in reality the rewards for fasting in Ramadan are countless and its full benefits known only to God, the following are ten very important reasons for fasting in Ramadan, and why Muslims are encouraged to take advantage of this unique social and spiritual experience.
* A Pillar of IslamThe foundation of Islamic spiritual practice is known as the Five Pillars of Islam, which form the basis for a spiritual culture designed to provide an ideal environment for personal growth and spiritual evolution.Fasting in Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, constituting one of the most valuable spiritual practices designed to empower a human being in overcoming the self and transcending the ego, the one true veil between a human being and his or her Creator.
* Spiritual PurificationOne of the primary benefits of fasting in Ramadan is spiritual purification, the essential goal of Islamic Spirituality.Although we tend to think of the mind, body and spirit as separate components, in reality they are all connected and interrelated, and improvement in any one naturally effects improvement in the others as well.Fasting in Ramadan purifies the mind, body and spirit, leading to greater clarity, sensitivity and health.
* HealthIt has now been scientifically documented and demonstrated that one of the most effective factors in improving human health and longevity is the reduction of intake and consumption.Fasting in Ramadan allows the digestive system, the engine of the body, to rest from the normal demands of processing and breaking down food, freeing up system resources to cleanse and purify the body of accumulated toxins, thereby allowing more effective healing and tissue repair.Fasting in Ramadan keeps the body healthy and youthful.
* Family and CommunityOne of the greatest benefits and reasons for fasting in Ramadan is renewing solidarity and cultivating positive relationships with one’s family and community.Only one who observes fasting in Ramadan can truly know the beauty and joy of breaking fast with others, celebrating the gift of life daily for thirty days with loved ones.Fasting in Ramadan is truly one of the greatest social experiences a human being will ever have, and this is one of the most important aspects of this unique pillar of Islamic practice.
* Gratitude
It’s true that one generally does not realize what he or she has until it’s gone or not available, and by fasting in Ramadan, Muslims become acutely aware of the unlimited abundance of divine favor God Almighty has blessed humanity with, particularly with regards to sustenance.The cultivation of gratitude is a core purpose of Islam, and few spiritual practices cultivate gratitude as does fasting in Ramadan!