IN BRIEF: Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?

Fasting

Fasting is one of the five pillars, or practices, of Muslims. Muslim scholars say it is the best of the five pillars, because only Allah knows if you are truly fasting or not. Muslims fast during Ramadan because in Islamic tradition this is the month that their holy book, the Qur’an, was first revealed to Muhammad. They also fast during Ramadan in order to identify with the poor and underprivileged. Fasting is said to improve a person’s standing before Allah.

The bible says

“For the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you.” 1 Chronicles 28:9 READ 1 Chronicles 28:9 VERSE IN CONTEXT (external site)*

Community and family focus

All adult Muslims are called to fast during this month, including children who participate as they are able (although not required). Those who are travelling, ill or pregnant may postpone their fasting, but must make it up later. Fasting also develops discipline. Besides fasting from food and drink, Muslims are also urged not to use vulgar language, but instead to read the entire Qur’an during that month.

Many Muslims cite Ramadan as their favourite time of year. Everyone comes together to struggle through the fast despite occasional soaring daytime temperatures. Evenings are spent visiting relatives, sharing together and eating many special foods. Evening meals can be a feast similar in magnitude to a Christmas dinner – so naturally, Muslims spend a lot of effort and money to ensure the evenings are a time of celebration.

Prayer points

We’re now two-thirds into the month of Ramadan, pray for seekers who are persevering with the fast to encounter the living Jesus, the Redeemer, through dreams and visions. May they come to know that Christ gives rest to the weary and is a friend of sinners.

Pray for believers to show hospitality and kindness to Muslims they live and serve among. May bonds of friendship develop during this time as they share common ground on the importance of faith and family.

Pray for believers to find natural opportunities to share the transforming impact of Christ in their lives. May Muslims be intrigued and start their own search of discovering a personal relationship with their Heavenly Father.

Our recommended song

To inspire your intercession, why not use this worship song to stir your thoughts and prayers.

ALL I HAVE IS CHRIST – By Sovereign Grace Ministries (external site)*

NB. Ramadan Special is a weekly series written by a Pioneers worker in the Arab world and the web editor. Library image is for illustrative purposes only.

*AWM-Pioneers is not responsible for the content of external sites.