In the Name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
The first thing we notice in the Quran is how Allah introduces fasting. He begins by calling to all believers—a call that you and I must respond to with "O Allah, we hear and we obey."
يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ ٱلصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ
O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺ (Al-Baqarah, 183).
Notice the word (كُتِبَ) "prescribed." Fasting is prescribed upon us just like medicine is prescribed by doctors—to be taken in a certain way, at a certain time, with a desired goal to heal and cure. This tells us that the outcomes of fasting are not random but intentional and beneficial.
Pause and reflect—and do not read further until you have answered this question for yourself:
If someone were to ask you, “Why do you fast?” could you thoughtfully articulate its deeper purpose and intended outcome, beyond the commonly stated explanation that Allah wants us to experience hunger, empathize with the poor, and become more charitable? While this understanding has merit and cultivates gratitude, it represents a consequential benefit rather than the primary objective of fasting.
Allah does not just command us to fast and leave us in the dark. He reveals to us the purpose, the wisdom, and the fruits we are meant to harvest from this blessed month. Each outcome builds upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive spiritual transformation.
The Quran's grammatical particles reveal divine purpose embedded in simple letters. The lām al-taʿlīl (لام التعليل)—"lam of purpose"—in verse 2:185 transforms "Fast Ramadan" from bare command into purposeful invitation: (وَلِتُكْمِلُوا۟ ٱلْعِدَّةَ) Fast so that you complete the count,
(وَلِتُكَبِّرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَاهَدَىٰكُمْ) “so that you glorify Allah." This single letter lām (ل) answers why, not just what.
Similarly, laʿalla (لَعَلَّ) in (لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ ) ("so that you may attain taqwā") expresses divine purpose and causation—not uncertainty—esta blishing fasting's intended outcome: taqwā (God-consciousness). Together, these particles function as spiritual architecture, linking cause to effect and revealing Ramadan not as arbitrary hardship but as precision engineering for moral transformation. They hold together the how, the why, and the what for of worship itself.
Let me share seven outcomes that Allah intends for us through fasting—each one connected to the next, like links in a golden chain.
Outcome #1: The Month of the Qur'an
It is important to note, Allah (SWT) first elevates the entire month by connecting it to the greatest event in human history: the revelation of the Qur'an.
"The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion [between right and wrong]" (Al-Baqarah, 185).
This is not just historical information. Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) is telling us that Ramadan has inherent nobility because it is the month when His speech descended to humanity. The Qur'an—Allah's own words—was revealed this month to enter the world. That alone makes Ramadan unlike any other month.
But notice how Allah describes the Qur'an using three distinct, powerful descriptions:
- guidance for the people (هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ )
- clear proofs of guidance (وَبَيِّنَٰتٍ مِّنَ ٱلْهُدَىٰ)
- criterion [between right and wrong] (وَٱلْفُرْقَانِ)
Each one reveals a different dimension of what the Qur'an does for us:
I). The Qur'an as Guidance (هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ)
"A guidance for the people."
The Qur'an is guidance, a roadmap, a light in the darkness. But not just for Muslims. It says "lin-naas"—for all people, for humanity.
This means the Qur'an's guidance is universal. Its principles work for anyone who sincerely follows them, regardless of their background. Why? Because it comes from the Creator who knows human nature better than humans know themselves.
The grammatical construction (هُدًى لِّلنَّاسِ guidance for mankind) functions as a ḥāl (حال circumstantial qualifier) describing the state of the Quran at the moment of its revelation. This ḥāl is not merely a descriptive attribute but serves critical functions:
First, it links deeper level meanings between fasting and the Quran, indicating that Ramadan's sanctity derives from the Quran's descent in a state of being guidance and the fasting person must engage with the Quran actively, not passively.
The ḥāl construction issues a perpetual call to the fasting person to remain in a state of seeking guidance (ṭalab al-hudā), transforming fasting from mere physical abstinence into a condition of spiritual growth.
II). The Qur'an as Clear Proofs of Guidance (وَبَيِّنَٰتٍ مِّنَ ٱلْهُدَىٰ)
Bayyinaat—clear evidence, self-evident proofs, obvious signs. The Qur'an does not just claim to be guidance; it proves its guidance through clear, verifiable signs.
What are these proofs?
The proof of transformation: When people sincerely follow the Qur'an, their lives change. Addicts become clean. The hopeless find purpose. The lost find direction.
The proof of timelessness: The Qur'an was revealed 1,400+ years ago, yet it speaks to modern issues with stunning relevance. Its psychology is profound. Its social guidance is wise. Intermittent fasting has become a health trend, promoted by non-Muslim physicians and researchers who have seen clinical evidence of its benefits— improved metabolism, mental clarity, longevity, and disease prevention.
III). The Qur'an as Criterion ( وَٱلْفُرْقَانِ Al-Furqaan)
"And criterion [between right and wrong]."
Al-Furqaan—the criterion, the standard, the separator between truth and falsehood, between right and wrong, between what leads to success and what leads to destruction.
In a world full of confusion, conflicting opinions, and endless debates about morality, purpose, and truth, the Qur'an is your reference point. It is your standard.
How does the Qur'an function as a criterion?
- It clarifies moral confusion
- It exposes falsehood
- It judges our actions
What does this mean?
Ramadan is the month to recalibrate your internal compass. You have been navigating life using various influences—culture, trends, friends' opinions, your desires, social media. Some of that guidance is good. Some of it is leading you astray.
This month, reset. Let the Qur'an be your criterion:
- When you're confused about a decision, consult the Qur'an.
- When you're unsure if something is right or wrong, check it against Qur'anic principles.
- When you're debating between two paths, ask: "Which one aligns with the guidance of Allah?"
Outcome #2: Developing Taqwa
Taqwa—consciousness and awareness of Allah—is the crown jewel of all outcomes. It is the ultimate purpose, the goal toward which all other outcomes point. Allah says: "O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become conscious of Allah (لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ la'allakum tattaqoon) (2:183)
Taqwa is:
- Awareness that Allah sees you when no one else does
- Consciousness that keeps you from sin even when you're alone
- Mindfulness in every moment, every action, every choice
- Fear that comes from love—like a child who fears disappointing a beloved parent
Fasting is the ultimate taqwa training program. Why? Because you are abstaining from things that are normally permissible—food, drink, marital relations—simply because Allah commanded it.
How to cultivate Taqwa:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever does not give up false speech and acting upon it, Allah has no need for him to give up his food and drink." (al-Bukhari, n.d., 30:1903) This teaches us that taqwa is not just about abstaining from food—it is about abstaining from everything that displeases Allah. Your tongue fasts from lies, gossip, and harsh words. Your eyes fast from looking at what's forbidden. Your ears fast from listening to backbiting. Your hands fast from harming others. Your heart fasts from jealousy, arrogance, and hatred.
When you develop this level of consciousness, it becomes your garment (as Allah calls it in the Qur'anوَلِبَاسُ ٱلتَّقْوَىٰ ذَٰلِكَ خَيْرٌ ) (But the clothing of righteousness - that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember. (7:26).
The Day of Return
But why is taqwa so important? Why is it the ultimate outcome? Because taqwa is what prepares you for the most important day of your life: the Day you return to Allah.
The scholars note this is one of the final verse revealed in the Qur'an:
وَٱتَّقُوا۟ يَوْمًا تُرْجَعُونَ فِيهِ إِلَى ٱللَّهِ ۖ ثُمَّ تُوَفَّىٰ كُلُّ نَفْسٍ مَّا كَسَبَتْ وَهُمْ لَا يُظْلَمُونَ ﴿
"Be mindful of the Day when you will ˹all˺ be returned to Allah, then every soul will be paid in full for what it has done, and none will be wronged" (2: 281).
Outcome #3: Experiencing Allah's Ease and Mercy
Then comes the explicit declaration that removes all doubt: "يُرِيدُ ٱللَّهُ بِكُمُ ٱلْيُسْرَ وَلَا يُرِيدُ بِكُمُ ٱلْعُسْرَ Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship."(2: 185)
Think about this. Allah is the Creator of the heavens and earth, the King of all kings. He does not owe us any explanation. He could have simply commanded: "Fast!" and we would have to obey. But instead, He explains to us that He wants things to be easy for us, not difficult.
What does this teach us?
It deepens our taqwa. When you realize Allah cares about your wellbeing, your heart softens toward Him. You develop consciousness of Him not just out of fear, but out of love and gratitude. You think: "SubhanAllah, my Lord does not want me to struggle unnecessarily. He is given me options, accommodations, and flexibility." This realization makes you want to please Him even more.
It removes excuses. Some people think: "I'm too weak to fast" But Allah has already addressed every legitimate concern:
- Sick? Fast when you are healthy.
- Traveling? Make it up later.
- Elderly or chronically ill? Feed a poor person instead.
- Pregnant or nursing and worried about your baby? You have options.
The accommodations are so comprehensive that there is truly no valid excuse. Allah has made the path accessible to everyone.
Outcome #4: Completing the Term
After Allah assures us of ease and accommodations, He then directs us toward completion: "وَلِتُكْمِلُوا۟ ٱلْعِدَّةَ So that you may complete the prescribed period."
This outcome is about seeing things through. It is about commitment, consistency, and crossing the finish line. Why does Allah emphasize completing the term as a separate, distinct outcome?
Because completion itself is an achievement.
Think about your own life. How many things have you started but never finished? How many books have you begun but left half-read? How many workout programs started with enthusiasm but abandoned by week two? How many projects, goals, and promises have fallen by the wayside?
Completion is rare. Completion is powerful. Completion is transformative.
The Psychology of "A Few Days"
Allah is teaching us a profound psychological principle here. He presents the month not as one overwhelming block of thirty days, but as "أَيَّامًا مَّعْدُودَٰتٍ a few days"—bite-sized, manageable increments.
I remember hearing a revert brother share his story about fasting. He said: "When I first learned that Muslims fast for a whole month, my heart sank. I thought, 'How can anyone survive without food and water for thirty days?' I was genuinely scared. But then I read the verse and saw 'a few days أَيَّامًا مَّعْدُودَٰتٍ ,' and something shifted in my mind. I thought, 'Okay, a few days. I can do it for a few days.' That phrase gave me hope and courage."
Outcome #5: Magnifying and Glorifying Allah (Takbeer)
"وَلِتُكَبِّرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَىٰكُمْ And [He wants you] to magnify Allah for that to which He has guided you."
After experiencing ease, committing to completion, and journeying through the days, you reach a profound realization: this entire month is a gift. The guidance is a gift. The ability to fast is a gift. Your very existence as a Muslim is a gift.
This outcome—magnifying Allah—is about letting your heart overflow with recognition of Allah's greatness. It's about saying "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest) and truly meaning it with every fiber of your being.
What Does It Mean to Magnify Allah?
To magnify means to make great, to enlarge, to recognize the true size of something. When you magnify Allah, you are not making Him greater (He is already the Greatest)—you're correcting your own perception. You are seeing Him for who He truly is and seeing everything else in proper proportion.
When Allah is magnified in your heart:
- Your problems become smaller
- Your fears lose their power
- Your desires become manageable
- Your priorities realign
- Your gratitude multiplies
Outcome #6: Cultivating Gratitude (Shukr)
" وَلَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ And that you may be grateful."
This is the natural fruit of magnifying Allah. When you see His greatness and then recognize His countless gifts to you, gratitude becomes your default state.
But let's be honest. How can fasting—experiencing hunger, thirst, and physical exhaustion—lead to gratitude? Shouldn't we be complaining instead?
This is where the wisdom of fasting reveals itself. Gratitude is not about always having abundance. True gratitude is recognizing abundance even in scarcity, seeing blessings even in difficulty, and appreciating what you have by temporarily experiencing what it is like to go without.
Gratitude as Means to Fulfillment
Modern research confirms what Islam has taught for 1400 years: gratitude is the key to happiness.
Researchers at UC Davis conducted a study on people experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). They did not give them medication. They gave them one simple task: every day, write down three things you are grateful for. After several weeks, these people showed significant improvements. Less anxiety. Less depression. Better sleep. Improved relationships. More optimism about the future.
Why? Because gratitude shifts your focus. Instead of obsessing over what you lack, you start appreciating what you have. Instead of complaining about problems, you start recognizing blessings. Your brain literally rewires itself.
The Gratitude-Multiplication Promise
Allah makes an extraordinary promise in Surah Ibrahim: "If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in blessing]."(14:7)
Notice the emphatic language in Arabic (لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ). It is not "maybe: It is "I will CERTAINLY increase you"—strengthened with both the ل (lam) and نّ (noon of emphasis).
This is a divine guarantee. Gratitude triggers increase. The more you thank Allah, the more He gives you. Not just material things—but peace, contentment, guidance, opportunities, relationships, health, and barakah (blessing) in everything you have.
But here is what most people miss: do not wait to be grateful until after you get what you want. Be grateful now, for what you already have, and watch what Allah does.
Outcome #7: Connecting with Allah Through Du'a (Supplication)
Right in the middle of the verses about fasting, Allah suddenly switches to Duaa. He does not say "and when my servants fast..." He says:
وَإِذَا سَأَلَكَ عِبَادِى عَنِّى فَإِنِّى قَرِيبٌ ۖ أُجِيبُ دَعْوَةَ ٱلدَّاعِ إِذَا دَعَانِ ۖ فَلْيَسْتَجِيبُوا۟ لِى وَلْيُؤْمِنُوا۟ بِى لَعَلَّهُمْ يَرْشُدُونَ
"When My servants ask you ˹O Prophet˺ about Me: I am truly near. I respond to one’s prayer when they call upon Me. So let them respond ˹with obedience˺ to Me and believe in Me, perhaps they will be guided ˹to the Right Way˺. (2: 186)
This placement is deliberate. Strategic. Beautiful.
Allah is telling us: fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink. It is about opening a direct line of communication with your Creator. It is about building intimacy with the One who hears your whispers in the darkness.
Why Is Du'a Embedded in the Fasting Verses?
Because Ramadan is prime time for du'aa. Not prime time for Netflix. Not prime time for excessive socializing. Not prime time for shopping. Prime time for talking to Allah.
If you are going to make du'a, make it now. If you are going to ask for forgiveness, ask now. If you're going to cry to Allah, cry now. The doors are wide open.
What Is Du'a Really?
Du'a is not just asking for things. It's much deeper than that.
Du'a is:
- Acknowledgment that you need Allah and cannot do anything without Him
- Trust that He hears you, sees you, and knows what's best for you
- Hope that He will respond in the best way, at the best time
- Worship in its purest form—the slave servant speaking to the Master
Notice: those who do not make du'a are described as "too arrogant." Not making du'a is arrogance. It is as if you are saying, "I do not need Allah. I have got this handled myself."
Making du'a is humility. It is saying, "O Allah, I am weak. I am limited. I am lost without You. I need You every moment of every day."
Ask for personal struggles:
- Help overcoming your sins and addictions
- Strength to be consistent in worship after Ramadan
- Patience with your difficulties
- Healing from your pain and trauma
- Direction when you feel lost
Don't hold back. Allah loves when you ask Him. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever does not ask Allah, He becomes angry with him."(al-Tirmidhi, n.d., 3373)
The Secret Du'a Between You and Allah
While it is good to make general du'as, don't forget your secret du'a—that one thing only you and Allah know about. That deep desire in your heart. That pain you have never told anyone. That hope you are too embarrassed to say out loud.
Tell Allah.
He already knows, but He wants to hear it from you. He wants you to express your need for Him. He wants the intimacy of you trusting Him with your deepest secret.
Concluding with Du'a Mindset: How All Outcomes Lead Here
Look at how beautifully the previous outcomes prepare you for du'a:
- From Taqwa: You're conscious that Allah is always near, always listening. So you speak to Him often, knowing He hears.
- From Ease: You know Allah wants good for you, not hardship. So you ask Him confidently, knowing He wants to give you what's best.
- From Completion: You've proven your commitment by fasting every day. Now you have the right to ask, "O Allah, I completed what You asked—now please grant what I ask."
- From Magnification: You know Allah is greater than your problems, your fears, your impossible situations. Nothing is too difficult for Him. So you ask for big things, impossible things, knowing He can do anything.
- From Gratitude: You're grateful for what He's already given you. So when you ask for more, you're not complaining—you're appreciating and seeking continued generosity from the Most Generous.
All these outcomes converge in du'a. Du'a is where your spiritual growth becomes conversation with your Creator.
References
al-Bukhari, M. (n.d.). Sahih al-Bukhari (M. Khan, Trans.). Book 30, Hadith 1903. https://sunnah.com/bukhari:1903
al-Tirmidhi, M. (n.d.). Jami` at-Tirmidhi. Hadith 3373. https://sunnah.com/tirmidhi:3373
Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377–389. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.84.2.377