Learn about fasting (Roza) in Islam—its obligation, Quran and Hadith references, history among Jews and Christians, and why it is a fundamental pillar of Islam.
INTRODUCTION
Fasting (Roza) is a central act of worship in Islam. It goes beyond abstaining from food and drink; it is a discipline of the body and soul that nurtures self-control, piety, and closeness to Allah.
Among the Five Pillars of Islam, fasting in Ramadan has a unique position because it develops both individual spirituality and social empathy.
In this article, you will learn:
When fasting became obligatory in Islam.
Its presence among Jews and Christians.
Quran and Hadith references about fasting.
Why deliberately missing fasting is a grave sin.
When Was Fasting Made Obligatory in Islam?
Fasting became obligatory in the second year of Hijrah (624 CE) in Madinah. Before this, Muslims observed voluntary forms of fasting but were not bound to fast the entire month of Ramadan.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“O you who have believed, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain Taqwa (piety).”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)
This verse shows that fasting was not a new practice, but a continuation of a divine tradition.
Later, Allah further clarified:
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and the criterion. So whoever of you sights the month, let him fast it…”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
Thus, fasting during the entire month of Ramadan became a mandatory act of worship for every adult Muslim.
Fasting in Previous Nations
Fasting Among Jews (Bani Israel)
Jews observed fasting on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) as an act of repentance.
They also fasted on occasions of mourning and remembrance, such as the destruction of the Temple.
Their fasts were spread across the year and tied to specific events, unlike Islam’s structured Ramadan.
Fasting Among Christians (Nasara)
Early Christians practiced fasting as a form of purification.
Over time, fasting took the shape of Lent, a period of abstinence from certain foods like meat or dairy.
Christian fasting is more symbolic and varies by denomination.
Qur’an’s Reminder
Allah reminds Muslims that fasting is part of a timeless divine system:
“…fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you…” (2:183)
Islam perfected fasting by restoring its original form—complete abstinence from food, drink, and marital relations from Fajr (dawn) to Maghrib (sunset).
The Spiritual and Social Wisdom of Fasting
- Attaining Taqwa
The Qur’an highlights the purpose: “that you may attain Taqwa” (2:183). Fasting makes a believer more conscious of Allah in every action.
- Self-Control and Discipline
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Fasting is a shield; it protects you from sin and hellfire.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
Fasting strengthens the ability to resist temptation.
- Compassion and Equality
Rich and poor alike feel hunger, which builds empathy. During Ramadan, Muslims are urged to give charity and Zakat al-Fitr.
- Physical Health
Although primarily spiritual, fasting also detoxifies the body and helps break harmful habits.
Fasting as a Pillar of Islam
The Five Pillars of Islam are:
- Shahadah (testimony of faith)
- Salah (daily prayers)
- Zakat (obligatory charity)
- Sawm (fasting in Ramadan)
- Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah)
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Islam is built upon five: the testimony that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger, the establishment of prayer, the giving of zakat, the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting in Ramadan.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
This shows fasting is not optional—it is a pillar of Islam.
The Gravity of Deliberately Abandoning Fasting
While Islam allows exemptions for travelers, the sick, pregnant or nursing women, and others with valid reasons, deliberately abandoning fasting without excuse is a major sin.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned:
“Whoever breaks one fast in Ramadan without an excuse or illness, even if he fasted for a lifetime, it would not make up for it.”
(Sunan Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)
This highlights the seriousness of ignoring this divine command.
The Comprehensive Nature of Islamic Fasting
Islamic fasting is holistic, involving body, mind, and soul.
No Food & Drink – from dawn to sunset.
No Marital Relations – until iftar.
Guarding Tongue & Actions – Prophet ﷺ said:
“When one of you is fasting, he should avoid foul speech or acting ignorantly. If someone abuses him, he should say: ‘I am fasting.’”
(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
Thus, fasting is not only physical abstinence but a complete ethical discipline.
Conclusion
Fasting (Roza) in Islam is a transformative act of worship that strengthens faith, purifies the heart, and builds social compassion.
It was made obligatory in the second year of Hijrah and has remained a pillar of Islam ever since. Previous nations like Jews and Christians were also commanded to fast, though their practices differed.
Deliberately abandoning fasting is a grave sin, while observing it sincerely is a path to forgiveness, discipline, and closeness to Allah.
As Allah says:
“Indeed, I am near. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:186)
Ramadan is the blessed month that opens this door of mercy for every believer.
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