When I think about
Ramadan, I remember that it is a time for reflection. Commemorating the moment
that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)1. At first glance; abstinence from food
and drink may seem to be the most imperative part of the blessed month, but for
lovers seeking the Beloved it is in the abstinence from the physical that feeds
the spiritual. The Quran recognizes Ramadan and fasting as a whole as a time to
attain God consciousness:
‘Oh you who believe!
Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, so that
you learn piety and righteousness.’ [Quran 2:183]
 |
| The concept of fasting during the month of Ramadan allows us to reconnect. |
God appeals to us,
urging us to fast, while alluding to all the nations of God before us who were
called to fast as well. The concept of fasting during the month of Ramadan
allows us to reconnect. As we go through our day while fasting it is much
easier to be present and mindful. Your body draws your attention back to
reality with the pangs of hunger and a dry mouth. As you go about your day, you
make sure to be especially careful trying to refrain from food and drink which
in and of itself is a strong practice to center your perception of reality.
It’s easier to remember God during times like this, every accidental reach for
food reminds you that you that you are carrying out an act of devotion
for God. The act of fasting is a completely sincere one; it is one of the only
devotional practices that is completely between you and God. There is no
external way to tell whether a person is fasting or not. Only God knows if you
have sincerely refrained from food and drink. The beauty in fasting is that
although it may seem like a very external act, it is one of those unique deeds
that is between only you and God. It is in devotional practices like this that
we are able to re-align and re-affirm our nature as spiritual beings.
Shaiful Alam
‘21
1
“PBUH” is an abbreviation for “Peace be upon Him.” Muslims are urged to utter this after the mentioning of the Prophet Muhammad’s
name as a sign of respect.
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