All things have both an external dimension and also an internal, and we only truly benefit when we learn to honor both of these, particularly with regards to our worship and spiritual practices.
The Messenger of God ﷺ stated, “There are those who receive nothing from their fasting except hunger,” implying that when we observe only the outward aspect of this sacred spiritual practice, i.e. following but the letter of the law while ignoring its spirit, essence and true intent, we fail to truly benefit from the intended purpose of fasting.
There are those who fast, yet receive nothing from their fasting except hunger, and there are those who pray, yet receive nothing from their prayers but sleeplessness.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Ibn Majah)
The Deeper Dimension of Fasting in Islam
In this livestream video, I discuss the deeper dimension of fasting in Islam and share how we can approach this sacred spiritual practice, particularly in the blessed and holy month of Ramadan, in the whole and holistic manner that was intended with the revelation of the religion.
Topics covered in this discussion include the importance of the inward and spiritual component of fasting, how to benefit from the month of Ramadan when physically challenged and the full fast is not possible, what types of foods to eat for optimum spiritual and physical benefits, recognizing and honoring heightened sensitivity, committing to personal and spiritual excellence independent of existing cultural and social norms, the nature of the self and how to fast internally, the sublimation, surrender and submission of the ego, and much more.
For additional learning, training and development on this topic, please refer to the Ramadan Success Program.
To your divine and eternal success.
