TLDR;
This video explores the concept of fasting in Islam, drawing on the teachings of Imam Al-Ghazali. It distinguishes between physical fasting (abstaining from food, drink, and physical relations), emotional fasting (controlling one's ego and reactions), and spiritual fasting (dedicating oneself entirely to the remembrance of Allah). The video encourages viewers to focus on emotional fasting, particularly controlling anger and negative responses in social media interactions. It also touches on the importance of intention (niat) in fasting, the significance of the Battle of Badr in Ramadan, and practical tips for making the most of Ramadan through Quran recitation and generosity.
- Imam Al-Ghazali's three levels of fasting: physical, emotional and spiritual.
- Importance of controlling ego and emotions, especially in the digital age.
- The Battle of Badr as a symbol of spiritual strength during Ramadan.
- Practical tips for maximizing the benefits of Ramadan.
Introduction to Fasting [0:00]
Imam Al-Ghazali provides insights into the essence of fasting, differentiating between the common person's fast, which involves abstaining from food and drink, and fasting driven by personal desires, such as seeking wealth or employment. Al-Ghazali identifies three types of fasting: physical, mental, and spiritual. Physical fasting involves abstaining from eating, drinking, and sexual relations.
The Power of Niat (Intention) [0:46]
When fasting, one should avoid consuming even permissible foods, driven by the intention to fast, which is valued by Allah. Allah focuses on the heart's sincerity rather than physical appearance. The intention to fast creates a direct connection with Allah, residing in the heart, which is close to Allah. Thoughts within the heart are heard by Allah, emphasising the importance of pure intentions.
Puasa Nafsiah: Fasting of the Soul [3:25]
Puasa nafsiah, or fasting of the soul, involves controlling one's ego, as mentioned in a hadith from Imam al-Bukhari. It means refraining from arguing or retaliating when provoked, even in the age of social media where it's easy to insult or instigate others. Those who retaliate have failed in puasa nafsiah. The goal is to be more mature than one's physical age, especially during Ramadan.
Puasa Khawas: Fasting of the Elite [8:13]
Success in controlling one's ego leads to puasa khawas, a level of fasting associated with the "wali" (close friends of Allah). In these times, becoming a beloved of Allah is essential to avoid becoming a beloved of Satan. Emulating Allah's attributes, especially compassion, is crucial. Those who spread discord should be pitied, as they are in inner turmoil, a form of worldly punishment.
Being Rabbaniyin, Not Just Ramadaniyin [10:26]
One should strive to be "rabbaniyin" or "somadaniyin" – individuals whose hearts are connected to Allah – rather than only focusing on Ramadan. It's important to listen to one's heart and seek guidance from it, rather than relying solely on external sources like the internet. When seeking guidance from a teacher, pray and ask Allah for direction. The true enemy is not a race or nation, but the evil that flows within people.
Practising Puasa Nafsiah [13:40]
Practising puasa nafsiah involves controlling physical desires and emotions. It means resisting the urge to indulge in harmful content and replacing it with something more wholesome. Overcoming desires requires gradual change and finding substitutes. Imam Abdul Karim Aljili says that purity of heart is achieved by denying one's desires. Instead of indulging in worldly pleasures, one should turn to prayer and reflection.
The Power of Fasting [16:48]
Fasting is unique because it can make one more active, not more lazy, by lightening the body. Niat (intention) provides energy. There are three levels of fasting, with the third being puasa rohani, which involves only remembering Allah. While this level is difficult to achieve, striving for the second level, puasa nafsiah, is more attainable.
The Battle of Badr: A Lesson in Spiritual Strength [19:37]
The Battle of Badr, which took place on the 17th of Ramadan, exemplifies spiritual strength. "Al-Badr" refers to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The 313 companions who fought in the battle overcame their fear through their faith. In the end times, true warriors will be few, with many falling away due to various reasons. Those who remain will be united by their love for Allah.
Lessons from History: Thalut and Nuaiman [25:14]
Like the Battle of Badr, the story of Thalut also highlights the importance of self-control. Only 313 soldiers, who refrained from drinking excessively, remained faithful. Even after the Prophet's death, figures like Nuaiman, despite his flaws, were recognised for their love for Allah and His Messenger. One should look beyond outward appearances and see the potential for good in others.
The Secrets of Fasting [28:36]
The 17th of Ramadan marks the victory of the 313 over those driven by worldly desires. Fasting of Ahlul Badr is a spiritual fast, focused solely on Allah. Fasting is unique because it is a secret act known only to Allah. Those who want to improve their inner selves must fast. Fasting sharpens one's intuition. Even non-religious people who fast can have keen insights.
The Virtues of Fasting [34:32]
Fasting is free from riya (showing off), unlike prayer. Riya is wanting to be seen doing good deeds, while arrogance is feeling superior because of one's knowledge. Fasting weakens the enemies of Allah, especially desires. The most potent weapon of Satan is syahwat (desire).
Syahwat and Fasting [39:13]
Syahwat can only be strengthened by eating and drinking. To weaken it, one must fast. Satan flows in the blood, and uncontrolled desires are more dangerous than demonic possession. Fasting is the "bekam" (cupping) of Satan, removing bad blood.
Practical Advice for Fasting [47:06]
It is recommended to have suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and delay it. Suhoor doesn't have to be a full meal; even drinking water counts. When breaking the fast, start with water and dates, following the Prophet's example. Be generous during Ramadan, as the Prophet was.
Quran and I'tikaf in Ramadan [50:47]
Engage in dirasah (studying the Quran) and i'tikaf (seclusion in the mosque) during Ramadan. Focus on connecting with Allah when reading the Quran. If you feel bored, take a break and engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) or prayer. Don't force yourself to read too much; take it easy. Combine Quran recitation with dhikr. The goal is to remember Allah. Don't rely on communities; be self-sufficient. Control yourself before death comes.
