Fasting as a Celebration

Fatma Bayram

In accordance with the command of Allah and the Hadith Jibreel, which is a widely transmitted narration from our Prophet (pbuh), we understand the significance of fasting as one of the five pillars of Islam. We are also aware of its value in the eyes of Allah. However, some of us harbor an unnamed distress and are hesitant to express it, both during the day while awaiting iftar and as Ramadan approaches. This subtle concern is often hinted at in phrases like "May Allah help us" or "Allah will assist us."

Yet, fasting is not a punishment to be endured; rather, it is a celebration through which we join the angels in joy and happiness. We fast also as an expression of gratitude. For instance, fasting on the morning of sacred nights is a token of our appreciation to Allah for granting us the opportunity to experience those nights. (Of course, there are also expiatory fasts observed as a form of penance to atone for some of our misdeeds. Hence, whether the fast we observe becomes a punishment or a celebration depends on our mindset.)

It is remarkable how swiftly we transitioned from a culture that celebrated through fasting, resembling angels, to one that revolves its celebrations around feasting at lavish tables.