Explain Why Sawm in Important to Muslims

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‘Explain why Sawm in important to Muslims’

Sawm is the practice of fasting during the month of Ramadan and the fourth pillar of Islam. For many Muslims Sawm is the most important pillar in the whole faith, as Ramadan is considered to be the holiest month of the year because of its emphasis on self-discipline and spiritual reflection. Ramadan is also believed to be the month that the Prophet Muhammad received the first verses of the Qur’an. This is clearly stated in the Qur’an when it says "The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. This therefore influences Muslims, as the Qur’an is of a divine nature and because of Allah’s omniscience the contents are factual. Consequently, Muslims strive to live life through the Qur’an and celebrate its first existence through fasting and the month of Ramadan. One way, Muslims celebrate sawm is through Laylat-ul-Qadr, The Night of Power, which was the day the Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation from Angel Jibril. This is therefore why sawm is extremely important to Muslims because it is when their holy sacred book first came to life and is the time they celebrate the fact that God has given them the Qur’an.

Another reason why Muslims view sawm to be extremely important is because fasting teaches restraint; the ability to control worldly desires and spend time in prayer and meditation. Fasting is a noble act that is much beloved by Allah and helps Muslims to recharge their spiritual batteries. This is clearly stated in the Qur’an when it states, “Allah is with those who restrain themselves." This therefore influences Muslims as their whole aim in life is to be with Allah in heaven. Consequently, Muslims believe that through sawm they will be able enter to heaven and be with with Allah meaning it is crucial for them to practice sawm.