Muslims fast during Ramadan as a form of worship and obedience to Allah. It is a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-discipline and sacrifice. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundation of Muslim life. The fast includes abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations from dawn until sunset.
Bible Verses:
There are no specific Bible verses that mention the Islamic practice of fasting during Ramadan. However, fasting is a common religious practice in the Bible used for spiritual purification, repentance, and seeking God’s favor. For example, in the Book of Daniel, Daniel fasts and prays to seek God’s wisdom, saying, “So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes” (Daniel 9:3).
Examples:
- Prophet Daniel: As mentioned, he engaged in a partial fast to seek understanding from God (Daniel 10:3).
- Jesus Christ: Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness to prepare for His ministry (Matthew 4:1-2).
- The city of Nineveh: When Jonah prophesied its destruction, the people of Nineveh, including their king, fasted and repented, and God spared their city (Jonah 3:5-10).
Three Main Takeaways:
- Spiritual Cleansing: Fasting during Ramadan is seen as a way to cleanse the soul and improve moral character.
- Empathy and Charity: Experiencing hunger and thirst reminds fasting Muslims of the suffering of the poor, fostering feelings of empathy and prompting more charity work.
- Discipline and Self-Control: By abstaining from everyday comforts, even water, Muslims practice self-discipline, learn patience, and control their desires, which is beneficial in all aspects of life.
