In a world where actions are often measured by what is visible and declared, fasting remains a uniquely intimate act of worship. Its essence is hidden, its measure known only to God. Prayer is seen, remembrance is heard, charity leaves tangible but fasting lives in the unseen: a conscious restraint, a quiet vigilance, a sincerity witnessed only by the One who knows the hearts.
A Devotion Claimed by God
In the divine hadith, God says:
“Every deed of the son of Adam is for him except fasting; it is for Me, and I alone reward it.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
This special attribution does not diminish other acts of worship; rather, it highlights fasting’s purity from ostentation. Its truth cannot be verified by people — only by God, the Knower of the hidden. Thus, its reward is open, vast, and beyond measure.
Beyond Physical Abstinence
God says:
“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you… so that you may attain God-consciousness.” (Qur’an 2:183)
Fasting is not merely abstaining from food and drink; it is a discipline of the heart. It guards the tongue from harm, the gaze from excess, and the soul from heedlessness. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever does not abandon false speech and acting upon it, God has no need of him leaving his food and drink.”(Bukhari)
It is a movement from physical restraint to spiritual refinement.
A School of Inner Awareness
Fasting cultivates ihsan — worshipping God as though you see Him, and knowing He sees you. The fasting person chooses integrity in solitude as in public.
Two Joys and a Greater Meaning
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The fasting person has two joys: a joy when he breaks his fast, and a joy when he meets his Lord.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
The first joy is fulfillment of trust; the second is the unveiling of sincerity rewarded by divine grace.
Purification of Wealth and Soul
By abstaining from what is lawful, the heart softens toward others. Fasting complements charity and zakat: the soul is refined, wealth is purified, and mercy expands within society.
“Whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you will find it with God.” (Qur’an 2:110)
Ethical Transformation
Fasting tempers anger and nurtures composure. The Prophet ﷺ instructed:
“If someone insults him, let him say: I am fasting.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
It is a moment of conscious restraint — protecting the sanctity of a worship that belongs to God alone.
Closing Reflection
Fasting is the worship of the unseen that reforms the seen. When sincerity grows in private, integrity appears in public. In a world of noise, fasting teaches that the most transformative acts are those known only to God.
“Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without measure.” (Qur’an 39:10)
