Fasting is one of the great acts of worship that Allah has prescribed for His servants. It carries immense rewards in both this life and the Hereafter. Here are some of its virtues:
1. Forgiveness of Sins: The Prophet ﷺ said, "Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari & Muslim)
2. A Special Gate in Paradise: The Prophet ﷺ said, "In Paradise, there is a gate called Al-Rayyan, through which only those who fast will enter..." (Bukhari & Muslim)
3. Intercession on the Day of Judgment: The Prophet ﷺ said, "Fasting and the Qur'an will intercede for a servant on the Day of Judgment..." (Ahmad & Al-Hakim)
4. A Means to Attain Taqwa (Piety): Allah says, “O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you, so that you may attain piety.” (Qur'an 2:183)
5. Atonement for Sins: The Prophet ﷺ said, "The trials of a man in his family, wealth, and neighbors are expiated by prayer, fasting, and charity." (Bukhari & Muslim)
6. Two Great Joys for the Fasting Person: The Prophet ﷺ said, "The fasting person has two joys: one when he breaks his fast, and one when he meets his Lord." (Bukhari & Muslim)
7. Strengthens Self-Discipline: Fasting trains a person to control desires and stay committed to righteous deeds, including online Quran memorization programs that help develop consistency and focus.
8. An Exclusive Reward from Allah: In a Hadith Qudsi, Allah says, "Every deed of the son of Adam is for him except fasting; it is for Me, and I will reward it." (Bukhari & Muslim)
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is a spiritual practice that enhances self-control, increases devotion, and deepens the connection with the Holy Qur’an, especially for those engaged in Qur’an memorization courses online. It serves as a reminder of discipline, patience, and the ultimate reward from Allah.