The Objective of Fasting
By Dr Manzur Ashraf
Fasting is a fundamental act of worship in Islam, prescribed in the Qur’an with a profound spiritual purpose. The primary objective of fasting, as stated in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183), is to attain mindfulness of Allah (Taqwa). Through fasting, believers cultivate self-discipline, self-restraint, and spiritual consciousness, which bring them closer to their Creator.
Means to Achieve the Objective of Fasting
To fully realize the essence of fasting, the Qur’an highlights two essential means:
- The Qur’an –
The month of Ramaḍān [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’ān, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. (Baqara: 185)
The Qur’an serves as a divine guide for humanity, providing knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual nourishment. It was revealed during the blessed month of Ramadan, a period in which the revelation began and continued progressively over twenty-three years. The Qur’an not only instructs believers on righteous living but also strengthens their connection with Allah. (Ibn Kathir explains that the Qur’an was first sent to the lowest heaven, Bait-ul-Izzah, during the Night of Power, before being revealed gradually to the Prophet Muhammad (sm).
- Dua (Supplication) –
And when My servants ask you concerning Me, then verily I am near, I answer the prayer of the supplicant when he calls on Me, so they should answer My call and believe in Me, so that they may walk in the right way. (2:186)
Dua is a powerful tool for seeking Allah’s guidance, mercy, and assistance. It reflects a believer’s reliance on Allah and is an act of devotion that brings the supplicant closer to Him. The Qur’an emphasizes the importance of Dua, especially in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:186), where Allah reassures believers that He is near and responsive to their supplications.
The Objective of Dua: Becoming Rashid (Rightly Guided)
The ultimate goal of Dua is to attain Rashad—right guidance, wisdom, and knowledge. The Arabic root r-sh-d signifies being rightly guided, as seen in the title Khulafa-e-Rashideen (The Rightly Guided Caliphs). This concept is further reinforced in Surah Al-Kahf (18:10), where the companions of the cave prayed:
“Our Lord, grant us from Yourself mercy and prepare for us from our affair right guidance.”
This verse exemplifies how sincere supplication leads to divine guidance and wisdom, aligning the supplicant’s path with righteousness.
The Nearness of Allah: Reflection on Verse 186
A narration recorded by Ibn Kathir provides context to Surah Al-Baqarah (2:186). A traveller once inquired whether Allah was distant, requiring loud supplications, or near, allowing for whispered prayers. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ remained silent until this verse was revealed, affirming that Allah is always near and readily hears the prayers of His servants. This reassurance emphasizes that believers need not despair, for Allah is ever attentive to their needs.
Conclusion
The Qur’an and Dua are essential in fulfilling the purpose of fasting—strengthening one’s mindfulness of Allah. Through engaging with the Qur’an and sincerely supplicating, believers achieve Rashad, aligning their hearts with divine wisdom and guidance. Fasting, therefore, is not merely an act of abstaining from food and drink but a means of attaining closeness to Allah, fostering spiritual growth, and ensuring a guided, righteous life.
