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I eat and drink but I am fasting


I eat and drink but I am fasting


The concept of fasting has been around for centuries. Fasting is practiced by various cultures and religions for spiritual purification.

However, recent scientific research has shed light on the incredible physiological effects of fasting. Made it a popular and accessible lifestyle for many.

Beyond its simplicity, fasting offers a plethora of health benefits. From promoting weight loss to improving metabolic health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing brain function, the advantages are undeniable.


By allowing our body to enter a fasted state, we tap into our natural fat-burning mechanisms, leading to increased energy levels and improved body composition.
I eat and drink but I am fasting
I eat and drink but I am fasting.Image Credit to Canva.com
Furthermore, fasting regulates blood sugar levels, lowers insulin resistance, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

So, if you're tired of yo-yo dieting and are looking for a sustainable and empowering approach to nutrition, Please read the following lines about fasting in Islam.

Fasting, according to the definition of Wikipedia, is the purposeful omission of eating and occasionally drinking. From a strictly physiological standpoint, "Fasting" could mean the metabolic state of someone who hasn't eaten to the metabolic state overnight accomplished upon thorough digestion and consumption of food. (Thanks to Wikipedia.)

The Arabic word for fasting is "SAWM." Sawm literally translates as "to refrain." Muslims believe that Shariah means abstaining from everything that is prohibited during a fast from dawn to sunset. (Thanks to islamonline.net.)

Fasting in Islam is far more than abstaining from food and drink. It is a spiritual journey that cultivates self-discipline, empathy, and a deep connection with Allah.

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide, providing a time of reflection, purification, and heightened devotion.


Fasting during Ramadan encourages believers to be mindful of their actions and words, promoting self-control and a heightened awareness of the needs of others. It serves as a reminder of the blessings bestowed upon us and the importance of gratitude.

Through the physical act of fasting, Muslims gain a deeper appreciation for the sustenance they enjoy every day, fostering a sense of humility and empathy towards those less fortunate.


Moreover, fasting serves as a means of purifying the soul. By abstaining from worldly desires, Muslims strive to attain a state of heightened spirituality, focusing on prayer, recitation of the Qur'an, and acts of charity.

The month of Ramadan offers an opportunity for self-reflection and introspection, allowing individuals to evaluate their actions, seek forgiveness, and strive for self-improvement.


Fasting in Islam is not limited to the physical realm; it encompasses the spiritual, social, and emotional dimensions of a believer's life. It strengthens the bonds of the Muslim community as families and friends come together to break their fast and share in the blessings of Ramadan.

The act of fasting fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and solidarity among Muslims worldwide.


Ultimately, fasting in Islam is a transformative experience that goes beyond abstinence from food and drink. It is a time of self-restraint, self-reflection, and spiritual growth.

Through fasting, Muslims deepen their connection with Allah, strengthen their character, and find renewed purpose in their worship and service to others.

Ramadan serves as a reminder of the profound wisdom and guidance embedded in Islamic teachings, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of believers as they strive to embody the virtues of Islam throughout the year.


An old man was eating something during  Ramadan. A young man approached and asked, "Uncle, why are you eating? Did you not fast? " Now you are in the last leg of
your age.

The old man turned slowly and replied with full confidence, Why not? "I eat and drink, but I am fasting." I just drink water, juices, and soft drinks and eat bread, rice, mutton, etc. When I feel hungry.

On hearing this answer, the young man laughed loudly and spoke with wonder. Is that even possible in Islam?
The old man answered boldly.

YES. Because: I do not lie in any case or at any time. I always try to speak the truth, whether it is in my favor or against me. Whether it hurts my friends, relatives,or foes. It doesn't bother me.

I do not look down upon anyone. Whether he is rich or poor. Whether he is young or old. I do not abuse anyone in the case of anger or arrogance. I am not jealous of anyone; what is he eating, what is he wearing, and having a luxurious bungalow, or having millions or trillions
dollars in the bank? I don't care. I do not hurt anyone's heart for nothing, because the human heart is the place where Allah stays. I do not eat forbidden (Haraam),
things, food, or wealth. Even though it is free I carry
out all my responsibilities and duties honestly, whether they are personal, national or religious. I don't backbite.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) declared eating the flesh of a dead Muslim brother. I never tried to fight or quarrel over minor things. I always try to help needy people in trouble.

But since I have a fatal stomach disease, my doctor advised me strictly not to keep my stomach empty at any cost or at any time. So I can't maintain the fast. It is my compulsion. May Allah pardon me. I seek Allah's forgiveness.

Then the old man turned to the young man and asked quietly. Are you fasting?

The young man bowed his head and said softly, "No, we just don't eat."

Lessons learned.


1. When we are fasting, it should apply to our whole body, from head to toe.

2. The fast of the eyes is to avoid bad looks to women, girls, boys, and men and obscenity, including seeing movies, photos, and images physically or in the shape of a laptop, computer, tablet, mobile, camera, etc, using the internet.

3. The fasting of the tongue is to keep one's tongue safe from backbiting, gossip, slander, malicious talk, abusive behavior, defamation, character assassination, insult and slurs etc.

Don't let your tongue hurt anyone. Always treat your subordinates, younger people, elders, and family members with respect,softly, and politely.

4. The meaning of a hadith (saying of the Holy Prophet) is that a Muslim is one from whose hands and tongue, other Muslims are safe. It is further added that the person who uses his hands and tongue to harm a Muslim will not enter Paradise.

5. The fast of the heart is that there should be no hatred, enmity, or hypocrisy in the heart for anyone. There should be no space in our hearts for intense dislike, ill will, hostility, repulsive feelings, or distaste. Our hearts should be free of disgusting thoughts, too.

6. The fast of the feet is that your feet do not go to any evil place, do any wrong deed or go to any evil place

7. The fast of the stomach is that at the time of Sahar and Iftar, the food that has been earned from halal wealth enters your stomach.

8. The fast of the mind is not to keep the thoughts of evil and immorality in your mind. Your mind should not plan to harm or humiliate anyone.

May God help us to understand the religion, to practice it and get the benefits of Ramadan.


Ramadan fasting has so many benefits for human health. It is not possible that Ramadan might have any harmful effect on human health. There is no such fear.


During Ramadan, we must restrain ourselves from eating, drinking, unlawful activities, and unethical acts. These acts unleash the load on our souls.

We feel our soul and whole body refreshed, delighted, and tranquilized by the flavor of virtue. In this situation, the condition is indescribable.


According to science, the benefits of Ramadan for the human body are very effective during Ramadan and also have long-term positive impacts even after the month of Ramadan.

In Sha Allah, you will enjoy Ramadan better in life. Cited below are more important health advantages.

Fasting has many benefits, including spiritual achievements, boosting the brain, positive thinking, controlling cholesterol levels, and increasing metabolism efficiency.

Reduces appetite and creates the ability to bear appetite on rainy days. Increases in positive psychological effects to keep a person satisfied in life.

A person who fasts in the month of Ramadan gets many other health benefits, such as body fitness and a reduction in urine and blood sugar (diabetes). Fasting gains extra energy by eating dates (Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)).


In addition to the aforesaid benefits, the month of Ramadan has some other benefits as well. Fasting reduces stress, strain, and anxiety of any kind, that is bothering your daily life.

Fasting will enrich your willpower and self-discipline to be punctual in your daily routine and other prayers. Fasting will also improve the self-awareness of every person abiding by it. Fasting will likely enhance your physical health, and every part of your body will feel comfortable during the month of Ramadan.


The month of Ramadan's fasting! Has another amazing benefit that may already be known to you. Believing that fasting increases your spiritual focus and mental comfort, through the purification of your body and mind. Have you ever heard that fasting has brain-boosting powers beyond belief?


In addition to other benefits, the most important and last benefit is priceless. The benefit is the deepening of your relationship with Almighty Allah, who is the creator and guardian of all creatures.


CONCLUSION

The regular habit of fasting during Ramadan is a duty due to Allah. You are totally not allowed to say, "I eat and drink but I am fasting." You can't eat even in front of fasting Muslims.

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, according to the holy book, the Quran. The other four pillars are daily five-time prayers, declaration of faith (Kalma), going for Hajj (pilgrimage) and Zakat (doing charity).


According to Islamic Beliefs, people who observe fasting during the month of Ramadan with complete faith and good intention, will have their past sins pardoned by Almighty Allah. They will be blessed with good health and wealth to enjoy a prosperous life.


Writer: Rab Nawaz, MA, B.Ed. Principal, Steps School, Rawalpindi