Ramadhan, the ninth month in Islamic calendar, is a meaningful month to Muslims all over the world. It is during this month that they fast, refraining themselves from eating during the daytime. It is also the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed.

In Ramadhan, rewards for good deeds more than double, and the gates of the Heaven are widely opened. The Prophet Muhammad SAW has said that whenever Ramadhan arrives, the gates of the Heaven are widely opened, the gates of Hell are shut, and the Devil is chained (Hadith narrated by Muslim).

Ramadhan is also known as “Syahrul Al Jihad”, which means the month for embracing the spiritual struggle to discipline oneself. It is not an easy thing to do, and only those with strong faith will triumph. Muslims who succeed in defending themselves from giving in to their temptations will find it easier to perform religious worship.

Dr Michael Mosley, author of the book The Fast Diet, said that fasting not only helps to reduce weight but offers various health benefits. “Studies have shown that alternate fasting leads to reduced blood pressure, lowered cholesterol level, and regulated insulin level,” Dr Mosley said.

Furthermore, Dr Razeen Mahroof from Oxford University said that fasting will force our bodies to burn fat, which will help to maintain our muscles and reduce cholesterol level.

“Detoxification also occurs during fasting, where accumulated toxins in body fat are removed. After a few days of fasting, there will be more endorphin in the blood that will improve mental health,” he said.

In addition, Ramadhan is also called the month of religious worship because in this month Muslims are encouraged to devote more time performing religious deeds. Apart from refraining themselves from eating and engaging in activities that negate the reward of fasting, Muslims should take the opportunity to increase the offering of non-obligatory prayers and read the Holy Quran. They must have the intention to be rewarded with Lailatulqadar, the Night of Power, which is better than a thousand months.

Happy fasting in the month of Ramadhan!