Islam - Its Meaning for Modern Man — Page 198
198 during the month of Ramadhan , or supererogatory, as at other times, is to promote righteousness, which is a progressive cultivation of spiritual values. The Prophet was very emphatic in drawing attention to that aspect of fasting. He said: “He who abstains from food and drink during the period of fasting, but does not strive to safeguard himself against moral lapses starves to no purpose. ” As against this, he pointed out that it had been revealed to him that, whereas there are high spiritual rewards for all other worship and righteous action, the ultimate reward of a person who observes the fast solely for the sake of God, is God Himself. At the end of the month of fasting there is the Festival of the breaking of the fast. This is one of those occasions when even a supererogatory fast may not be observed. But again, in conformity with the spirit of Islam, the only matter prescribed for the Festival is an extra service during the forenoon, comprising two rak’as , which is followed by an address by the Imam. This service is held in the open where all the people of a village, several villages, or of a town, may gather together for the service, or in the biggest mosque or mosques of a large town. The purpose is to glorify God, to celebrate His praise, and to render thanks to Him for the guidance provided by Him, particularly with regard to all that relates to the