“Fasting blinds the body in order to open the eyes of the soul.”
— Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi (RA)
Waris Nissar
As the sacred month of Ramadan continues, millions across the world fast daily, stand in prayer, and seek forgiveness. Yet Ramadan was never meant to be reduced to hunger and thirst alone. It is not merely about refraining from food and drink — it is about disciplining the self and improving who we are.
The Qur’an teaches that fasting was prescribed so that believers may attain taqwa — a deeper consciousness of Allah that shapes behavior and strengthens moral character. Hunger is only the surface; the real objective is self-restraint and accountability.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) informed that when Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained (Bukhari, Muslim). Scholars explain that the stronger rebellious devils are restrained during this month, reducing their influence and making goodness easier to pursue. Yet if dishonesty, injustice, betrayal, or other forms of wrongdoing still persist, we cannot simply attribute them to the devil. Ramadan reminds us that the deeper struggle lies within — in our own nafs, our habits, and our unchecked desires.
Ramadan calls us to remove hatred and strengthen unity. It encourages fairness in dealings, honesty in speech, and respect in relationships. It teaches us not to consume what does not belong to us, not to oppress, and not to betray trust. The value of fasting is reflected in character. If patience increases, humility grows, and kindness becomes visible, then the spirit of Ramadan is alive within us.
True change will not come merely by blaming others, circumstances, or society. It begins when we sit with ourselves, reflect honestly on our weaknesses, and accept responsibility for our shortcomings. The Qur’an reminds us that Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is within themselves. When we choose self-correction over fault-finding, meaningful transformation becomes possible.
This month also renews our reliance upon Allah alone. Human expectations may lead to disappointment, but trust in Allah brings steadiness and hope. Guidance (hidayah) rests with Him, while sincere effort is our duty.
In an age where knowledge is abundant and reminders are constant, awareness alone is not enough. Knowledge gains value only when it is implemented. Ramadan is not about outward appearance or symbolic religiosity; it is about strengthening integrity, refining character, and aligning our actions with our faith.
It is a training ground for discipline, sincerity, and moral responsibility.
Ramadan is not only about hunger — it is about self-control.
Not only about restraint — but about accountability.
Not only about rituals — but about reform.
As this blessed month continues, the real success of our fasting will not be measured by how long we remained hungry, but by how much we improved.
The true success of Ramadan is not remaining hungry. It is becoming better.
May Allah make this Ramadan a true turning point in our lives — transforming our character, deepening our faith, and filling our hearts with unity, sincerity, love, and lasting blessings.
