Why do Muslims fast in Ramadan? Spiritual & practical guide

1. Introduction – The Sacred Month of Ramadan

Ramadan is more than a month of abstaining from food and drink — it is a sacred period of reflection, renewal, and closeness to Allah. Fasting during this month transforms the soul, strengthens willpower, and brings believers closer to their Creator. At Reverts Guide to Islam, we help new Muslims understand that Ramadan is not about deprivation but elevation  a journey that purifies the heart and nurtures gratitude.

2. The Qur’anic Command for Fasting

Allah commands in the Qur’an:

“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain taqwā (consciousness of Allah).” (Surah al-Baqarah 2:183)
This verse highlights fasting as a timeless act of devotion — not punishment, but a path toward mindfulness and piety.

3. The Purpose Behind Fasting in Islam

The fast refines the soul and disciplines desire. By restraining from lawful pleasures  food, drink, and intimacy  a believer learns control, gratitude, and reliance on Allah. The hunger of the stomach awakens the humility of the heart.

4. Spiritual Purification Through Abstinence

Fasting purges the heart of arrogance, envy, and greed. Each day without indulgence is a day of inward cleansing. It restores spiritual sensitivity and strengthens one’s connection with the unseen.

5. Fasting as a Means of Self-Discipline

Through fasting, Muslims learn patience, endurance, and self-restraint. The routine of pre-dawn meals and sunset breaking teaches rhythm and balance  both spiritual and practical. It’s a sacred training for life itself.

6. Compassion and Empathy for the Less Fortunate

Fasting allows one to feel, in a small measure, the hunger endured daily by the poor. It nurtures empathy and generosity, compelling believers to give in charity (sadaqah) and feed those in need, thus knitting communities closer together.

7. The Physical and Mental Benefits of Fasting

While fasting’s primary goal is spiritual, it also offers remarkable physical benefits. It cleanses the body of toxins, stabilizes metabolism, and enhances mental clarity. Fasting nurtures both health and humility.

8. The Daily Routine of a Fasting Muslim

A fasting day begins before dawn with suḥūr  a meal of blessing. During daylight hours, believers abstain not only from food and drink but also from anger, gossip, and impatience. As sunset approaches, anticipation builds for iftār, when families and communities unite in gratitude.

9. Breaking the Fast The Iftar Tradition

The Prophet ﷺ encouraged breaking the fast with dates and water, followed by prayer and a wholesome meal. Iftar symbolizes mercy  a daily celebration of faith, gratitude, and shared joy.

10. Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings About Fasting

Many misunderstand fasting as hardship or punishment. Some rush through prayers, neglect reflection, or treat iftar as a feast. True fasting is more than hunger  it’s restraint of the tongue, eyes, and heart from sin.

11. The Last Ten Nights and Laylat al-Qadr

The final nights of Ramadan hold unmatched spiritual power. Laylat al-Qadr — the Night of Decree  is better than a thousand months. Believers intensify worship, seek forgiveness, and strive to draw nearer to Allah during these sacred moments.

12. Continuing the Spirit of Ramadan Beyond the Month

Ramadan ends, but its lessons endure. Those who fast sincerely emerge renewed  more disciplined, empathetic, and mindful. The spirit of Ramadan should live on in daily prayers, charity, and gratitude throughout the year.