THE IMPORTANCE OF ‘FASTING’

It has been exercised in all ages and among all nations in times of mourning, sorrow and affliction. Hindus and Christians also fast. It is a spiritual exercise.

The object of fasting are to guard against evil, control oneself, be conscious of the poor, obey God’s laws, control passions and to reach closer to God. Fasting aid in purifying the soul. It is flexible — one who is ill or on a journey must fast after the sickness and journey. Those who find it hard to fast must feed a poor person if he can afford it for a month.

Fasting disciplines the will.

A Muslim must abstain from food and drink to experience the pangs of hunger and thirst. Allah says, "Fasting is for Me."

An American Indian youth fasted as a penance to find a vision to be his guardians spirit for his whole life. Musqakie Indians put a boy on a nine-year training who underwent fasting which was of great importance to him in his dreams. Algerian tribesmen fasted to induce dreams which were carefully enquired into. In the Bank Islands fasting is used for magical acts.

In ancient Egypt fasting was done to remove impurities from their body. Cherokees who fasted were the ones who were allowed to eat the new corn.

Tibetan Buddhists fasted to torture their body — for food added evil to the body. Food is intended only to keep the body fit and allow it to perform it’s functions.

Overeating is a bad habit, gluttony is encouraged on festive occasions hence the need for fasting.

Fasting prevents diseases, helps concentration and lays the foundation of moral purity. Fasting is a hygienic maxim and an important religious observance.

Performance of worship and good deeds are done with fasting.

AHAMAD KHAYYAM

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