Understanding The Prophet's Life
From Issue: 899 [Read full issue]
Nothing but Hunger
There are some clear indications from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that the fast may not have its desired effect in purifying the soul if it is not performed in the proper manner. In particular, while abstaining from food, drink and intimacy, one is required to make an extra effort to abstain from the other acts that Allah forbids at all times. The Messenger of Allah said, "If one does not give up false speech and acting according to it, then Allah is not in need of him giving up his food and drink." [Bukhari]
In fact, the fast is meant to be a period of training and development of taqwa (God-consciousness). If a person does not abstain from forbidden acts during that time of fasting, then he is actually not receiving or enacting the proper type of training. Hence, the act in itself becomes nothing more than a burden and hardship on the person without any beneficial outcome in this life or, possibly, in the Hereafter. Hence, the Messenger of Allah also said, "Perhaps the fasting person gets nothing from his fast except hunger. And perhaps the praying person [at night during Ramadan] gets nothing from his standing [in prayer] except sleeplessness." [Ibn Majah]
Compiled From:
"Purification of the Soul" - Jamaal al-Din M. Zarabozo, p. 249