The Christian Broadcasting Network

Q&A

Why do Muslims fast?


CBN.com - For 30 days once a year during Ramadan, Muslims around the world refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and marital relations from dawn to sunset. Along with repeating the confession, ritual prayer, almsgiving and making the pilgrimage to Mecca, fasting is one of the five "Pillars" or "acts of worship" which are obligatory for all Muslims.

Keep in mind that the Islamic calender, which is lunar, is shorter than our solar calender by about eleven days. This means that Ramadan moves forward every year so that there are 33 lunar years--and 33 fasts--for every 32 solar years. In 1987, for example, the first of Ramadan fell on April 28th, and in 1989 it fell on April sixth. When Ramadan comes during the summer with its long, hot days, as in recent years, fasting can be quite an ordeal.

But why do Muslims go through this ordeal every year? The reason is quite simple; it is commanded in the Qur'an: "O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you even as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may fear [God]." (2:183, see also 184-185) To give themselves more incentive to fast, Muslims often stress its benefits. It develops self-control, curbs the passions and selfishness, helps one feel for the poor and hungry, and so on. But the primary reason Muslims fast is that they believe God has commanded them to do so. Closely associated with this is the idea that fasting "pleases God"--and will weigh in their favour on the Day of Judgement.

"Do Christians fast?" This is a question one is often asked in Muslim societies where "everyone fasts." Certainly, we can say that the Bible does not command us to fast. Most of us would probably also point to passages that show that no amount of fasting, or any other "work of righteousness" for that matter, can earn us God's favor. What we need is God's grace, the Saviour. And yet, must we not also acknowledge that the Bible does commend fasting, when it is undertaken to give one's self to prayer or as a spiritual exercise. But how many Christians fast at all? While we cannot fast for the reason that the Muslim fasts, perhaps we have something to learn from his zeal.
  • Translate
  • Print Page


CBN IS HERE FOR YOU!
Are you seeking answers in life? Are you hurting?
Are you facing a difficult situation?

A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.

Do You Know Jesus
Grow In Your Faith

Need Prayer?

Call 1-800-700-7000
Email your prayer request

Email iconSign up for E-mail Updates Full List

 E-mail: