\*\* The Virtue of Fasting – Path to Taqwa and Forgiveness\*\*
**What is Siyam (Fasting)? Its Objectives, Benefits, and Spiritual Impact – Explained through Quran and Authentic Hadith**
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### Introduction
Fasting (Siyam) during the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a means to attain taqwa (piety), self-discipline, gratitude, and nearness to Allah. Fasting purifies both body and soul, fostering deep spiritual growth and awareness.
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### 📖 Fasting in the Qur’an
> **"O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain taqwa."** – (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
> **"And it is better for you that you fast, if only you knew."** – (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:184)
> **"The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind..."** – (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
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### 🕋 Fasting in Authentic Hadith
> The Prophet ﷺ said:
> **"Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven."** – (Bukhari & Muslim)
> **"Fasting is a shield. So the fasting person should avoid obscene speech and ignorant behavior..."** – (Bukhari, Hadith: 1904)
> **"The smell from the mouth of a fasting person is better with Allah than the smell of musk."** – (Muslim, Hadith: 1151)
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### 🌟 Objectives and Benefits of Fasting
* Attaining Taqwa (God-consciousness)
* Purification of soul and body
* Self-control and discipline
* Increased empathy for the poor
* Gaining Allah’s forgiveness and mercy
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### 🌙 Spiritual Impact
* Develops sincerity and patience
* Increases recitation of and connection to the Qur’an
* Multiplies rewards of good deeds
* Builds a deeper relationship with Allah
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### ✅ Tips for a Fruitful Fast
* Begin with sincere intention (niyyah)
* Avoid backbiting, lying, and all sinful acts
* Spend time in dhikr (remembrance) and du’a
* Give charity and help the needy
* Break fast with dates and water as per Sunnah
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### 🔚 Conclusion
Fasting is not just refraining from food and drink—it is a comprehensive act of worship that transforms the heart and soul. Let us embrace the fast with love and devotion, seeking Allah’s mercy, and emerge from Ramadan spiritually renewed.
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📚 **References:**
* Qur’an:
* Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183–185)
* Hadith:
* Sahih Bukhari (Hadith: 1904)
* Sahih Muslim (Hadith: 1151)
* Bukhari & Muslim (Muttafaqun Alayh)