The Quran, Guidance, and Gratitude: Understanding the True Purpose of Fasting
Fasting in Ramadan: More Than Just Abstaining from Food
As a child, I always thought that fasting in Ramadan was all about food.
But I was wrong.
Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink—it is about gratitude.
It is about being thankful to Allah for His divine guidance.
The Quran: A Divine Gift Revealed in Ramadan
The greatest miracle in human history happened in Ramadan: the revelation of the Quran.
Allah describes the Quran (Chatper 2 - Surah Baqara, Verse 185) as:
1/ A guidance for humanity
2/ A clear proof of that guidance
3/ The criterion that distinguishes right from wrong
Fasting: A Command from Allah to Draw Closer to Him
Then, Allah prescribed fasting in Ramadan as an act of devotion, a way for believers to grow spiritually, show gratitude for His divine guidance, and strengthen their connection with Him through 30 days of fasting.
Exemptions from Fasting: Allah’s Mercy and Wisdom
In His infinite wisdom and mercy, Allah provides two exemptions:
1/ Those who are sick
2/ Those who are traveling
For them, fasting can be postponed, but the missed days should be completed later.
Then comes one of the most beautiful verses in the Quran.
As humans, we may think fasting for 30 days is difficult, but Allah reassures us with His words:
- "Allah intends for you ease and not hardship."
- "Fasting is good for you—if only you knew."
The Deeper Purpose of Fasting: Gratitude and Reflection
Why should we fast?
Because it connects us back to the core message of the Quran—the very guidance that was revealed in this blessed month.
As Allah said “and that you must magnify Allah for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him.”
Fasting is not about deprivation; it is about recognizing and appreciating Allah’s guidance.
It is about glorifying Allah, it’s about gratitude—true, deep gratitude that leads us to fast, read, understand, and live by the Quran.
It compels us to give charity, to seek Allah’s pleasure, and to be grateful for His countless blessings.
A Prayer for Ramadan
May Allah allow us to reach Ramadan, accept our fasting, and grant us the ability to be truly grateful for His mercy and guidance.
Ameen.