STOP! 3 SINS ARE MAKING ALLAH REJECT YOUR FAST!
Understanding the Essence of Fasting
The Importance of Intent in Fasting
- Allah does not require individuals to refrain from eating and drinking for fasting to be accepted; rather, it is the intention behind fasting that matters.
- Fasting during Ramadan should be done out of faith and with the intention of seeking reward from Allah, which leads to forgiveness of sins.
Correcting Our Understanding of Fasting
- Many people mistakenly believe that fasting only involves abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations; however, this is just one aspect.
- There are two types of fasting:
- Fasting of the stomach (refraining from food and drink).
- Fasting of the limbs, which includes controlling one's senses and actions.
The Challenge of Comprehensive Fasting
- True fasting requires more than just avoiding physical needs; it also involves:
- Fasting the eyes from looking at forbidden things.
- Fasting the ears from listening to harmful speech.
- Fasting the tongue by refraining from negative speech or gossip.
The Consequences of Neglecting Proper Conduct
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that if a person does not abandon false speech, swearing, lying, backbiting, or gossip during Ramadan, their fast may not be accepted.
- Ignorance can manifest in two ways: failing to act on known obligations (e.g., neglecting prayer), or exhibiting foolish behavior such as arguing or insulting others.
Nurturing Good Character During Ramadan
- When faced with rudeness or provocation while fasting, one should respond by stating "I am fasting," thereby maintaining self-control and good character.
- Ultimately, if a person fails to fast properly—by engaging in sinful behavior—their abstention from food and drink holds no value in Allah's sight.
This structured approach emphasizes both the spiritual significance and practical implications of fasting during Ramadan.