Fasting in the Islamic Faith: An interview with Baba F. Trawally

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Baba F. Trawally is an Ahmadi Muslim who has a great passion for fasting. He not only fasts during the month of Ramadan, but also fasts voluntarily on specific days during the rest of the year. He is currently serving as the National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Gambia.

Can you provide a brief overview of the Islamic faith?

Islam is a monotheistic religion centred on the belief in One God and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (sa). It is based on five core beliefs and six articles of faith. Islam emphasises submission to Allah’s will, asserting that true peace comes from aligning with divine guidance. Ethical living, guided by righteousness, justice, and compassion, is central to Islam. It advocates balance and moderation, encouraging harmony between spiritual and worldly duties. Self-purification is key, aiming to transform the heart by eliminating negative traits and fostering virtues like humility and patience. The teachings promote justice, unity among believers and nations, and empathy for all, affirming equality before Allah. Islam’s message is closely linked with mercy, calling for forgiveness and reconciliation. It offers a comprehensive approach to a balanced life rooted in spiritual awareness, ethics, and justice, targeting both worldly peace and eternal salvation.

Does fasting take place in your faith tradition, and does it have a specific name?

Yes, fasting takes place in my faith. Its name is Saum or Siyam which is the Arabic term used to describe the act of fasting. It is the practice of abstaining, usually from food, drink, marital relations and anything which substitutes food and drink from sunrise to sunset. The month of fasting is called Ramadan in Islam.

When did the observance of fasting originate in your faith?

Prior to the compulsory Ramadan fast, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa) observed the Ashura fast upon his migration to Madinah. It is traditionally observed on the 10^th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa) fasted on this day and encouraged others to do so as well. It is considered a day of reflection, repentance, and gratitude, as it is also believed that Allah Almighty saved the Prophet Moses (as) and the Israelites from Pharaoh on this day.

The observance of fasting in Islam during Ramadan was made obligatory in the second year after the migration (624 CE), when Allah Almighty revealed the command in the Qur’an: ‘O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain righteousness.’ (2:184-185).

This verse shows that fasting was also practised by earlier religious communities, such as Jews and Christians. However, in Islam, fasting during Ramadan became a distinct obligation, with specific rules and spiritual significance. 

Are there any rules for fasting in your faith?

Yes, fasting in Islam has specific rules, including obligatory and recommended practices and exemptions.

One must make an intention (niyyah) to fast before dawn (for obligatory fasts like Ramadan). They should abstain from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). A Muslim must also avoid sinful behaviour, such as lying, gossiping, arguing, or using foul language and anything evil.

Who Must Fast?

Fasting is obligatory for every adult, sane, and capable Muslim, except those who are excused.

Who is Exempted?

Those who are exempt include children (before puberty), the elderly (who cannot bear fasting), the sick, travellers, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and women during menstruation or postnatal bleeding (they must make up the missed fasts later).

Why do you fast?

I fast to fulfil the divine obligation of fasting revealed in the Holy Qur’an and follow the sunnah (practice) of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa) and thus demonstrate submission to Allah Almighty’s will.

One of the most important lessons fasting has taught me is the power of self-discipline. During Ramadan, I restrain myself from basic physical needs like eating, drinking, and even certain comforts, all in obedience to Allah Almighty. This practice of exercising control over my desires reminds me that life’s challenges are often tests of patience and self-restraint. 

Whether I am facing difficulties in my personal or professional life, I realise that having control over my desires and emotions is essential for overcoming challenges that may appear daunting. The ability to refrain from things that are permissible but distracting for the sake of Allah Almighty teaches me to be focused, determined, and committed to my goals, no matter how difficult they may seem.

Fasting teaches me about reliance on Allah Almighty (tawakkul). There are moments during fasting when I feel physically weak or mentally drained, but I know that Allah Almighty’s mercy is greater than any difficulty I face. It is through reliance on Allah, trusting that He is the Ultimate Provider and Sustainer, that I find strength to endure. This principle of tawakkul becomes even more essential when facing life’s challenges. I realise that I cannot control everything, but I can always place my trust in Allah Almighty’s wisdom and plan.

What are the benefits and challenges of fasting?

The benefits of fasting are numerous and multifaceted. They range from spiritual, moral and physical aspects of individual and communal life.

Fasting teaches self-discipline and mindfulness of Allah Almighty. When a Muslim abstains from food, drink, and other desires, they develop greater self-control and closeness to Allah Almighty. By fasting, Muslims cleanse their hearts and souls from sins, bad habits, and distractions. It is a time for increased worship, prayer, and recitation of the Holy Qur’an.

Going without food and water makes Muslims more grateful for Allah Almighty’s blessings. It reminds them not to take provisions for granted and to appreciate even the simplest things. This encourages more charity and social responsibility.

During Ramadan, Muslims around the world fast together, break their fast together, and engage in community prayers, strengthening bonds of brotherhood and unity.

Although the main purpose of fasting is spiritual, it also has physical benefits, such as detoxifying the body, improving digestion, and promoting self-restraint in eating habits.