Virtues of Ramadan Pt 7

Ramadan is a mercy upon the body, the mind, the family, the community, and indeed all people across the planet. Unlike fasting traditions in other systems where abstinence serves as self-punishment for wrongdoing, the Islamic fast is a balanced act of submission to the Creator — a purification process that does not harm the body but rather liberates the believer from the control of physical desires.

The Mercy Behind the Exemptions

Allah reveals in the Quran that whoever is sick or on a journey may make up their fast at another time, and He declares: “Allah intends ease for you and does not want to make things difficult” (Quran 2:185). Scholars have clarified that sickness here does not mean minor queasiness or tiredness — it refers to a condition that genuinely incapacitates or endangers a person’s health. Many righteous Muslims have continued fasting under extraordinary conditions, like welding in factories with flames, or traveling through the scorching desert, because they understood that the fire of Jahannam is stronger than any worldly heat.

“Allah intends ease for you and does not want to make things difficult.” — Quran 2:185

Who May Break Their Fast

• The traveler — The Prophet (peace be upon him) showed that there is no extra blessing for fasting while traveling, and he himself broke his fast during journeys
• The elderly — Those unable to fast may pay fidyah by feeding a poor person for each day missed
• Pregnant and nursing women — Because pregnancy and breastfeeding drain the mother’s strength and vitamins, they have the option to break their fast and make it up later
• Women during menstruation — They do not fast during their period and make up the days afterward

Your Fast Is Dawah

“The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) gave us the balanced nation, the just nation, and this fast will give us the energy and blessings to remain part of this ummah.”

Those who break their fast for a valid reason should do so discreetly, as fasting in public serves as a powerful form of dawah. Whether at work, school, or in any environment, your fast becomes a representation of Islam to non-Muslims who observe you. The exceptions Allah has provided are themselves a mercy — and taking advantage of them when needed ensures you have the strength to benefit from all the virtues and blessings of this sacred month.