Basics of Religious Education — Page 14
14 14 14 14 14 B ASICS OF R ELIGIOUS E DUCATION - F IFTH E DITION Fasting is a source of many blessings. Some of these are summarized be- low: Keeps away from evil: By fasting, a Muslim abstains even from his essen- tial and lawful requirements solely for the sake of Allah. Thus it becomes easy for him to keep away from the unlawful acts and evil deeds which are forbidden by Allah. Promotes self -discipline and human sympathy: Fasting promotes self- discipline and endurance. It also reinforces the bonds of human sympathy, especially for the poor. During Ramadan, the Holy Prophet sa was very gen- erous in giving charity to the poor. Promotes spiritual elevation: Fasting promotes spiritual elevation and love of Allah for His servants. According to the Holy Prophet sa , Allah Him- self becomes the reward for a believer who is fasting, by forgiving his sins and accepting his prayers. Improves physical health: Fasting brings a healthy change in our body systems and promotes better health. Allah becomes very generous to accept prayers and forgives those who can find the Lailatul Qadr or the Night of Decree, which may be any one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. Retirement to a mosque, during the last ten (minimum of three) days and nights of Ramadan, solely for the sake of worship and remembrance of Allah, is called I`tikaaf. The Night of Decree I`tikaaf I I I I I SLAM SLAM SLAM SLAM SLAM — A — A — A — A — A CTS CTS CTS CTS CTS OF OF OF OF OF W W W W W ORSHIP ORSHIP ORSHIP ORSHIP ORSHIP 1. 3 1. 3 1. 3 1. 3 1. 3 Blessings of Fasting ISLAM ISLAM ISLAM ISLAM ISLAM Kalimah Salat Zakat Pilgrimage Fasting The Five Pillars of Islam