With the beginning of the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslim communities in Europe and around the world renew a path of faith rooted in the Qur’an and in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. As happens every year, the start of the fast may fall on different days, according to the criteria adopted for determining the beginning of the lunar month. This plurality of approaches, which exists within the Islamic tradition, should not be a cause of division, but rather an opportunity for mutual respect and communal maturity.
Fasting in Ramadan is not merely abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset. It is first and foremost an act of worship and awareness. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah the Almighty says: “O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain taqwa” (Qur’an 2:183). The stated purpose is taqwa, a living consciousness of God that guides actions, purifies intentions, and strengthens moral responsibility.
On a spiritual level, fasting trains the believer in self-control, patience, and sincerity. It is an act that no one can truly verify except Allah, and precisely for this reason it becomes a genuine expression of faith. In a hadith qudsi it is reported that Allah says: “Fasting is for Me, and I alone will reward it.” This highlights the unique value of this practice, which brings the believer closer to his Lord through inner silence, prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, and charity.
On a moral and social level, fasting develops empathy toward those who live in poverty and deprivation. Experiencing hunger and thirst reminds us of human fragility and encourages concrete solidarity. Ramadan thus becomes a month of sharing, strengthening family and community bonds, reconciliation, and dialogue.
From a physical and mental perspective as well, numerous contemporary studies have highlighted benefits associated with controlled fasting, including improved self-discipline, greater mental clarity, and the rebalancing of certain metabolic functions. However, in Islam the value of fasting is never reduced to its health dimension. The body participates in the act of worship together with the spirit, in a harmonious unity that involves the whole person.
The European Muslims League, in respect of the different juridical sensitivities and the decisions adopted by local communities and European scholars, renews its wish that this month be lived as a time of mercy, reflection, and renewed commitment to peace, dialogue, and cooperation among peoples.
May fasting be for all a means of spiritual elevation, unity in diversity, and a sincere return to the authentic values of Islam.
Ramadan Mubarak.
Peace and Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon you.
Fasting in Ramadan: Spiritual, Inner and Social Benefits
