Ramadan Day 3—How Much Does Fasting Matter?
What if fasting wasn't the most important part of Ramadan?
While fasting is often the most visible part of Ramadan, what if I told you it actually wasn’t the most important part?
In a famous hadith (saying) of Prophet Muhammad (sa), he admonished:
Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink. (Reference : Sahih al-Bukhari 6057)
To be precise, this doesn’t diminish the importance of fasting. It points out that abstaining from food and drink while engaging in immoral language and behavior undermines the very purpose of self-reform that Ramadan is supposed to ignite. This teaching reminds us that of the two core responsibilities Islam obliges upon every person—service to God and service to humanity—the more important obligation is service to humanity.
In another hadith, Prophet Muhammad (sa) further warned of the dire consequences of neglecting our duty towards others.
A famous companion of Prophet Muhammad (sa) named Abu Huraira (rz) reports:
A man said, “O Messenger of Allah, a woman prays in the night, fasts in the day, does many deeds and gives charity, yet she harms her neighbors with her tongue.” The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “There is no good in her. She is among the people of Hellfire.”
The man said, “O Messenger of Allah, another woman prays the obligatory prayers and gives bits of food in charity, yet she does not harm anyone.” The Prophet said, “She is among the people of Paradise.” (Reference: al-Adab al-Mufrad lil-Bukhārī 117)
We’ve seen throughout history and even today the horrifying results of dehumanizing language. Islam teaches that the words we use towards others matter. Words of anger and dehumanization lead to societal discord, violence, and even war. Words of positive reinforcement or respectful disagreement foster a healthy society built on mutual trust and respect. In this way, Ramadan encourages Muslims to be thoughtful about not just our actions, but our words and thoughts, as means of self-purification.
And that self-purification is ultimately something entirely within our control as we try to build a better society for all people. Happy fasting!
Pope Leo has the same words during Lent (when Christians typically give something up, like chocolate) “Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves. Instead, let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect.. In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.” The pope is calling on us to “give up” hateful, destructive language this Lent, not something trivial like chocolate. He wants us to give up something that will result in a better world.
important messages to adhere to always...sound advice of love and compassion...