THE literal meaning of the Arabic word “Saum” is to be at rest, and that implies, abstinence.
The word, “Ramadan” is derived from the word “Ramz” which means “ to burn” and here it applies to burning of selfish desires. It is important to remember that abstinence is from all that is legal and acceptable in ordinary days but not so during the period of Ramadan; and burning of desires is also an all encompassing concept. Ramadan is meant to be a month of patience. Every Muslim during the course of the Holy month is expected to observe exemplary patience against all provocations. The institution of Fasting has an inbuilt two dimensional objective/ motive, firstly the spiritual experience, its benefits and secondly, moral discipline that leads to a better society. The ultimate objective is to seek Divine Pleasure.
Fasting is meant to attain Righteousness, patience in adversity, steadfastness in deprivation and to create bulwark against temptations of all types and formats. Since the rich and the poor are on the same pedestal, they are meant to equally experience the pangs of hunger and privation to an equal degree. The reality check is in the form of the price escalation of all products, particularly associated with Fasting. The corruptive practices instead of seeing a reduction, increase manifolds. The balance is titled in favour of the seller. We as a Nation haven’t learnt the art of breaking these tendencies by adoption of either a complete boycott of the product or to observe “ abstinence “. We consume more in Ramadan. Regrettably and unfortunately.
The Holy Quran states: “ ( Saying): “ Eat of the good things We have provided for your sustenance but commit no excesses therein….”( 20: 81). Abdullah Yusuf Ali in his adds a new dimension to its interpretation which is in relation to ‘ not merely literally but also metaphorically’. He has given you ethical and spiritual guidance. Enjoy the fruits of all of this, but do not get puffed.” I have reasons to believe that this interpretation is in the context to what the same verse says further”…..let my wrath justly descends upon you: and those on whom descends My Wrath do perish indeed!”. “Good things” implies to “ Tayyib” which is an Arabic word that means pure, clean, wholesome, nourishing and pleasing to the taste buds.” O you people! Eat of what is on earth, lawful and good; do not follow the footsteps of the Evil One, for he is to you an avowed enemy “( 2:168).
There are regulations about food that are clear and unambiguous. The appeal in the opening is to “All” people, not just Muslims; then in the subsequent verses 2: 172/ 173, the address is directed to Muslims…the two verses reads,” O you who believe! Eat of the good things We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah, if it is Him you worship “. For the Bounties of the many types/ varieties of meat, vegetables, fruits and nuts, Muslims are exhorted to express gratitude and thanks to Allah; and this is done and achieved through “ worship “ as the verse says itself . The expression of gratitude has to be executed through the many formats of Worship “.The prohibitions about food are simple and clear.” He has forbidden you dead meat, and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that on which any other name has been invoked besides that of Allah….”(2: 173).
The desire to eat more than is needed by the body dominates us ,more so, during Ramadan. The table that is laid for Sahoor and Iftari puts to shame the very purpose and concept of Fasting. Most generally, end up eating the combined equivalent of four , if not five meals, that one partakes ,normally. Most devour food like there is no tomorrow. The eating habits become the unhealthiest during Ramadan, because the intent of Fasting is lost totally upon us. Our Beloved Prophet (PBUH) had said, “ No human being has ever filled a container than his own stomach. The son of Adam needs no more than a few morsels of food to keep up his strength, doing so he should consider that a third of his stomach is food, a third for drink and a third for breathing “( Ibn Maja).
Everything in life has to be done, received and achieved by following the middle road. There is no room for extremism of thought or action. Moderation or the golden mean is the edifice upon which all injunctions/ regulations are built. In any society, it is only the lawful that is permitted, which inherently must be based on the quality of reasonability. Healthy diet is mentioned too, where in the consumption of milk and honey, it is confirmed that there is healing and cure. Also, the soft meat of Fish and other species is permitted. “ Lawful to you is the pursuit of water- game and its use for food—- for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel…”( 5: 96).
Verse 3 in Surah Maida (The Table) describes in detail what foods are prohibited. It also describes the method of sacrifice, which can render it to be halal or otherwise. The essential and paramount principle I deduce from these directions is that , at the root of all actions , in every sphere of life, tge dominating thought has to be “ Taqwah” ( Fear of Allah). Taqwah is the litmus test for everything in life. In Ramadan when austerity ought to be the hallmark, we have increase in consumption. At iftari and Sehri, there is so much of wastage of food and eatables. This is done with no regret.
Ramadan is meant to bring attitudinal changes, which once induced , have to remain in practice for the rest of the year. The changes must bring forth include Taqwah, mercifulness , forbearance, forgiveness and patience. If any fails to achieve this, the fast is without purpose. Fasting must lead a true believer to exemplary standards of behaviour, which must necessarily be symbolic of the traits and lofty character of the Holy Prophet ( pbuh). And Fasting must bring changes in eating habits too. We aren’t supposed to stuff and make up for a lost meal . The choice is with us, a month of Fasting or a month of Feasting!
—The writer is quite senior banker & freelance contributor.
