The verses of Surah Al-Baqarah that pertain to Ramadan are among the most beautiful and comprehensive in the entire Quran. They establish the obligation of fasting, explain its purpose, and reveal the profound closeness Allah offers to His servants during this blessed month.
The Command to Fast
Allah addresses the believers directly, establishing fasting as an obligation that connects them to every generation of believers before them. The goal is clear: the development of taqwa, a conscious awareness of Allah that transforms every aspect of life.
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you, that you may become righteous.”
Mercy Within the Obligation
Even within this command, Allah’s mercy shines through in the exceptions and allowances He provides:
- Those who are ill or traveling may make up the missed days later
- Those who face extreme difficulty may provide a ransom by feeding a poor person
- Whoever volunteers extra good during Ramadan will find it multiplied in reward
- Allah intends ease for His servants, not hardship
“Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship, and that you complete the number and glorify Allah for having guided you, and that you may be grateful.”
Allah Is Near
The verses conclude with one of the most intimate and comforting promises in the entire Quran, a verse that every fasting person should carry in their heart.
“And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to them when they call upon Me.”
During Ramadan, Allah is closer than ever. Every prayer, every moment of hunger, and every act of patience is an opportunity to connect with the Creator who hears every call and answers every sincere supplication.
