The word Ramzan derived from the Arabic word Ramaz, which means intense heat, holds a special significance for the Muslims around the globe. Fasting being very seriously implemented in the life of every Muslim during the month is more an invitation to emulate the Prophet by studying how he overcame the social conditions during his time in Arabia when he started his reform movement.
Abstaining from all the worldly pleasures to reinvent oneself to be a better human not lost in the pursuit of desires is what Muslim do with alot of concentration during the month. The cruelties man show to his own body throughout the 11 previous months are purified during the holy month.
The main objective of fasting is to achieve piety and righteousness and this implies one to be conscious of his creator, increasing awareness about his majesty, glorifying the names and attributes, and thanking for the blessings.
To consciously avoid what we likes the most and our favorite food, shows the strength of mind and the devotion one has for the almighty, is all what we get to learn from the Muslims during the holy month.
Abstaining from food has great ramifications on the person observing fast, both physically and spiritually. Only a true devotee learns how to restrain one’s urges and desires during this month-long fasting.
I was inspired by my Muslim friends to fast during Ramzan for the last 19 years as I could not even swallow a sip of water while they were fasting. From then to now, every year, when fasting for one month, I get to know the true meaning of purification of both mind and body on the spiritual path.
