CSS 2013 Solved Islamiat Past Papers | Importance and Philosophy of Fasting
The following question of CSS Islamiat 2013 is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted using the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, who have scored the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Question Breakdown
About this specific question, the examiner inquired about the importance and philosophy of Fasting (SAUM). Also, explain its individual and collective benefits. The question is addressed in two parts. The first is an outline, which is broken down into different parts. Moving further, the introduction is given, followed by the importance and philosophy of Fasting (SAUM). It also discusses its individual and collective benefits and conclusion.
Outline
1-Introduction
2- The philosophy of fasting according to the Quran
3- The importance of fasting according to Sunnah
3- Impacts of Fasting (SAUM) on the individual life of humans
- ✔Creating the love of God
- ✔Highlighting the spiritual development
- ✔Ensuring Physical health
- ✔Instilling generosity, compassion, and selflessness
4- Impacts of Fasting (SAUM) on the collective social life of humans
- ✔Strengthening Community Bonds
- ✔Promoting Empathy and Generosity
- ✔Encouraging Equality and Brotherhood
- ✔Enhancing Social Responsibility
5-Critical analysis
6-Conclusion
Answer to the Question
Introduction
Saum, or Fasting, is fundamental to Islamic religion and represents self-purification, discipline, and dedication. It is a whole spiritual practice meant to cultivate Taqwa (God-consciousness), not only denying oneself food, water, and other necessities from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is cultivating self-control, humility, and thankfulness while being more intimate with Allah via increased awareness and introspection. On a personal level, Fasting improves physical health, develops patience, and deepens spiritual ties. Together, it brings people together in communal worship, develops compassion for the underprivileged, and promotes deeds of kindness and charity. Fasting is a powerful act of worship that improves people’s lives and fortifies ties throughout society by highlighting both societal harmony and personal development.
The philosophy of fasting according to the Quran
According to the Quran, the Islamic concept of Fasting (Saum) is based on the growth of self-control, spiritual cleansing, and Taqwa (God-consciousness). Fasting is a divinely prescribed practice intended to purify the soul, deepen the bond with Allah, and inculcate moral principles that promote individual and collective well-being. In several passages, the Quran exquisitely illustrates the goal and advantages of Fasting. For instance, “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous (achieve Taqwa)” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183). Therefore, Fasting cultivates self-control and the attention of Allah in all facets of life by teaching people to refrain from both bodily necessities and immoral actions. This increased consciousness of Allah’s existence promotes moral and ethical conduct.
The importance of fasting according to Sunnah
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stressed the spiritual, moral, and social advantages of fasting in his Sunnah, which highlights the significance of fasting in Islam. “Fasting is a shield; so when one of you fasts, he should not behave obscenely or foolishly. If someone fights him or insults him, he should say: ‘I am fasting’” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim). (Sahih Muslim, Sahih Bukhari). This Hadith encourages Muslims to be patient and avoid confrontation by emphasizing Fasting as a method of moral discipline and self-control. “The smell from the mouth of a fasting person is more pleasant to Allah than the fragrance of musk,” the Prophet (PBUH) added, underscoring the great benefits of Fasting. Since the Prophet (PBUH) urged people to eat Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and said, “Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is a blessing” (Sahih Bukhari), this practice is an example of the Sunnah’s approach to Fasting. Following these guidelines makes fasting a transformational spiritual and ethical discipline in addition to a physical exercise of self-control.
Impacts of Fasting (SAUM) on the individual life of humans
- Creating the love of God
By encouraging dedication, obedience, and dependence on Allah, Fasting is a powerful tool for developing the love of Allah in a person’s heart. A believer’s determination to put Allah’s instructions ahead of their wishes is demonstrated via Fasting, which strengthens their relationship with their Creator. According to the Hadith Qudsi, the self-control exercised while fasting—avoidance of food, liquids, and immoral conduct—reflects a deliberate attempt to seek Allah’s pleasure: “Fasting is for Me, and I will reward it. He leaves his desire and his food for My sake” (Sahih Bukhari). This devotion and sacrifice create a strong sense of oneness with Allah. Muslims enhance their devotion throughout Ramadan by reciting the Quran, praying for extended periods (Taraweeh), and asking for forgiveness on the nights of Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree). This is a symbol of their love for one another. Driven by the desire for Allah’s love and mercy, these deeds cleanse the heart and fortify faith, cultivating a profound and lasting love for Allah.
- Highlighting the spiritual development
Furthermore, by enhancing Taqwa (God-consciousness), cleaning the soul, and strengthening the bond with Allah, fasting is a profound prayer act promoting spiritual growth. A person fasting trains their heart to rely alone on Allah by avoiding food, drink, and worldly cravings. This helps them change their attention from earthly worries to spiritual progress. Quran emphasizes this goal, stating: “…that you may become righteous (attain Taqwa)” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183). By fostering self-control, tolerance, and humility, Fasting assists people in overcoming their egos and bringing their behaviour into accordance with Islamic principles. To enhance their bond with Allah and nurture their souls, Muslims, for instance, conduct more acts of devotion throughout Ramadan, such as memorizing the Quran, praying extra (Taraweeh), and making sincere supplications. Fasting also promotes self-reflection and responsibility as people work to abstain from immoral actions and cleanse their intentions. Therefore, a greater awareness of Allah’s presence results from this spiritual development, which also promotes long-lasting personal change.
- Ensuring Physical health
Moreover, fasting, particularly during Ramadan, has major health advantages for the body and is consistent with both contemporary medical procedures and Islamic beliefs. Correct Fasting allows the digestive system to recuperate from continuous usage by giving the body time to relax and detoxify. This is recognized by the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184), where Fasting is explained as a means of achieving righteousness that also subtly improves physical health. Fasting can help control blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and help people manage their weight, according to research. Nonetheless, by enabling the body to utilize fat for energy once glycogen reserves are exhausted, Fasting improves metabolic function. Additionally, the customs of Iftar (breakfast meal) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) promote balanced nutrition by offering vital vitamins and minerals. According to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), eating in moderation is also advised.“The son of Adam fills no vessel worse than his stomach” (Sunan Ibn Majah). Fasting fosters spiritual development and physical health by following the Sunnah’s guidelines for moderate food and adequate drinking, resulting in a balanced way of living.
- Instilling compassion and selflessness
Because fasting fosters empathy and a sense of duty to others, it profoundly instils kindness, compassion, and selflessness. Fasting causes people to feel hungry and thirsty, which deepens their empathy and helps them comprehend the hardships of others who are less fortunate. This charitable attitude is encouraged by the Quran, which says: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a seed which grows seven ears, in each ear, there are a hundred grains” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261). Muslims are inspired to give liberally by this increased empathy, particularly during Ramadan when charitable deeds are encouraged. For instance, breaking the fast with others—especially those in need—reflects the altruism that Fasting promotes. According to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), “Whoever provides food for a fasting person to break his fast will have a reward like theirs, without that person’s reward being diminished in the least” (Tirmidhi). This reinforces the principles of compassion and generosity by highlighting the benefits of giving, whether via direct donation, meal sharing, or sponsoring neighbourhood projects. Thus, by encouraging an external focus on others, fasting changes the individual and improves both individual and societal wellbeing.
Impacts of Fasting (SAUM) on the collective social life of humans
- Strengthening Community Bonds
Ramadan fasting is essential for promoting a sense of solidarity and togetherness among Muslims as well as building ties within the community. Breaking the fast together at Iftar, frequently with loved ones, friends, or neighbours, promotes hospitality and fosters communal peace. During Ramadan, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighted the value of community by saying: “When one of you is invited to the Iftar, let him accept it” (Sahih Bukhari). In addition to sharing meals, this promotes inclusion and compassion by motivating Muslims to help those in need. Additionally, the custom of doing charity during Ramadan, such as Zakat and Sadaqah, strengthens the community’s commitment to helping the less fortunate and unites people in their endeavours to improve their lives. Fasting during Ramadan promotes solidarity, mutual support, and group spiritual development by strengthening the social fabric via these actions.
- Promoting Empathy and Generosity
Moreover, through a deeper knowledge of the struggles the less fortunate encounter, fasting during Ramadan is essential in fostering empathy and kindness in society. In order to develop empathy for individuals who face poverty and hardship all year long, it is necessary to experience hunger and thirst throughout the day. Muslim generosity is encouraged, particularly during Ramadan, and this increased empathy motivates deeds of compassion and charity. Helping others is essential, according to the Quran, which states: “The righteous are those who…give food, in spite of their love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive” (Surah Al-Insan 76:8). During this month, many Muslims boost their charity donations (Zakat and Sadaqah) to help local and global concerns, demonstrating the compassion of the Muslim people. The importance of contributing during Ramadan was also emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who said: “Whoever provides food for a fasting person to break his fast will have a reward like theirs, without that person’s reward being diminished in the least” (Tirmidhi). Thus, Ramadan encourages Muslims to actively look for ways to help and improve their communities by fasting, highlighting the value of giving to create a society that is compassionate.
- Encouraging Equality and Brotherhood
Furthermore, by fostering a common experience that cuts beyond social, economic, and ethnic divides, fasting during Ramadan is essential to promoting equality and fraternity in society. Regardless of their origin or position, Muslims worldwide are united in their commitment to Allah as they fast together, promoting equality. Believers are reminded by the Quran that Fasting is a communal obligation, stating: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183). Everyone, regardless of wealth, abstains from food and drink during this communal act of devotion, underscoring the intrinsic equality of all Muslims and assisting in the dismantling of societal barriers. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighted the value of solidarity and solidarity by saying: “None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself” (Sahih Bukhari). Thus, Ramadan promotes togetherness in society by encouraging equality, humility, and concern for one another via Fasting.
- Enhancing Social Responsibility
Last but not least, by promoting deeds of compassion and generosity and fostering a strong feeling of obligation toward the well-being of others, fasting during Ramadan strengthens social responsibility. Hunger and thirst make people more aware of the hardships endured by the less fortunate and inspire them to give what they have to others who are less fortunate. Social duty is emphasized in the Quran by saying: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a seed which grows seven ears, in each ear, there are a hundred grains” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261). Muslims are urged to contribute liberally throughout Ramadan through Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and Zakat (obligatory almsgiving), which helps to reduce poverty and promote communal welfare. Assisting others to was highlighted by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who said:
“Whoever feeds a fasting person will earn the same reward as him, without any reduction in his reward” (Tirmidhi). By motivating people to contribute to the welfare of their communities actively and to take care of others’ needs, Ramadan cultivates a strong feeling of social responsibility via Fasting, resulting in a society that is more responsible and compassionate.
Critical analysis
Fasting provides a valuable chance for introspection and self-discipline, assisting people in rediscovering their spiritual values in a society where consumerism and rapid fulfilment are commonplace. However, some people can find it difficult to completely engage with the spiritual nature of fasting in the modern period due to the development of digital distractions and a consumer-driven culture. Instead of emphasizing introspection and dedication, Fasting might be reduced to habit or simple physical abstinence without any spiritual growth. The problem, though, is that in some cultures, Ramadan has been commercialized, and the emphasis on social gatherings and consumerism may overshadow the true meaning of Fasting. Despite these obstacles, Fasting is still a potent means of promoting social cohesiveness, mental health, and spiritual development in the modern world, but it takes deliberate work and introspection to sustain its significant influence in the face of contemporary distractions.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, Fasting is more than just depriving oneself of food, drink, and other essentials from dawn to sunset; it is a complete spiritual discipline designed to develop Taqwa (God-consciousness). Through greater awareness and contemplation, Fasting is meant to foster self-control, humility, and gratitude while also fostering a closer relationship with Allah. Fasting strengthens spiritual bonds, cultivates patience, and enhances physical health. Collectively, it encourages acts of kindness and generosity, encourages sympathy for the poor, and unites individuals in collective worship. By emphasizing both social harmony and individual growth, Fasting is a potent act of prayer that enhances people’s lives and strengthens bonds across society.
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