Beyond the physical fast
Fasting is a tool used to achieve Taqwa, which can be described as a “living awareness.” It is the practice of being mindful of one’s choices and their impact on others and the world.
Intentional discipline
The goal isn’t hunger for its own sake, but rather training the mind in patience and gratitude.
Internal fasting
Muslims are taught to “fast” with their behavior as well. This means being extra careful with speech, avoiding gossip or anger, and practicing restraint in all reactions.
The Scriptural Root
The Quran states that fasting was prescribed so that people might become “mindful of God” (Quran, 2:183).
The spiritual peak: The last ten nights
The final ten nights are the most intense part of the month. This is when the Quran was first revealed. Many people treat this period as a “spiritual sprint” to finish the month strong.
The night of power
Muslims seek a specific night called Laylatul Qadr. It is considered a window of immense spiritual opportunity, described as being more valuable than a lifetime of worship.
Increased devotion
Because the exact date is not fixed, people intensify their prayers across the final ten nights, particularly on odd-numbered dates.
Retreat (I’tikaf)
Some choose to stay in the mosque for several days, detaching from the noise of routine life to focus entirely on reflection.
Workplace impact
You may notice colleagues are more tired due to late-night prayers or may be more quiet and reflective than usual.
Inner excellence and character
While fasting is an outward action, the “inner state” of the person is what matters most. In Islamic tradition, this focus on the heart’s purity is known as Tassawuf, the purification of the heart from negative traits like pride, envy, or greed. During Ramadan, this internal work becomes more focused.
Building sincerity
The goal is to ensure that spiritual acts are done purely for the Divine, rather than for the approval of others.
Developing patience and trust
Practitioners focus on building Sabr (patience) and a deep sense of trust in a higher power.
Cultivating gratitude
Fasting is used as a lens to recognize and be thankful for the smallest blessings that are often taken for granted.
Spiritual excellence
A central theme of this practice is Ihsan, which translates to spiritual excellence. This principle encourages people to live with the highest level of integrity.
Constant Awareness: It is the effort to worship and act as if you are in the direct presence of the Divine.
Integrity in Secret: Even when no one else is watching, a person maintains their character because they know they are being seen by God.
Calm Demeanor: This internal focus is often why those observing Ramadan may appear more reflective, quiet, or patient despite the physical challenges of the fast.
Charity and ethical finance
Generosity is a pillar of the faith, and it becomes much more visible during Ramadan.
Obligatory charity (Zakat)
Most Muslims are required to give 2.5% of their surplus wealth to those in need every year. Many choose Ramadan to do this calculation and distribution.
Ethical finance
Islamic principles prohibit Riba (interest or usury). This shapes how many Muslims handle money, preferring ethical investments and financial products that avoid traditional interest.
Purpose over profit
The goal of these financial rules is to ensure that wealth is used to support the community rather than just accumulating for a few.
Zakat at a glance
- Rate
- 2.5% of qualifying wealth
- Who pays
- Muslims who have surplus wealth
- Purpose
- Structured to ensure social justice and the circulation of wealth within the community for those in need.
Ramadan and giving
A way to give back
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