Fasting (ṣawm) is much more than abstaining from food and drink; it is a profound spiritual journey toward taqwā (God-consciousness). The Quran states:
“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those before you, so that you may attain taqwā.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)
Imam Al-Ghazali (d. 1111 CE), a renowned Islamic scholar, outlined three levels of fasting, each representing a progressively deeper stage of spiritual refinement:
By understanding these levels, we can elevate our fasts from a mere physical act of deprivation to a transformative practice that draws us closer to Allah Almighty.
This foundational level of fasting is obligatory upon all Muslims who meet the required conditions (adults in good health, not traveling under hardship, etc.). It entails refraining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib).
Characteristics of Ordinary Fasting
Yet this level remains largely limited to physical restraint. One may fulfill the outward obligation yet continue sinful actions—such as lying, gossip, or other unethical behaviors—thus missing the deeper spiritual rewards.
A Prophetic Warning
“Many are those who fast but gain nothing from their fast except hunger and thirst.“
(Ibn Mājah, Aḥmad)
The Prophet ﷺ alerts us that merely avoiding food and drink, while engaging in sinful acts or neglecting righteousness, fails to realize the fast’s true purpose.
This second level transcends basic abstention, demanding moral and sensory self-discipline. A person at this stage guards every aspect of behavior—eyes, ears, tongue, and limbs—from wrongdoing.
Characteristics of Special Fasting
Example: Incomplete Moral Discipline
A person may physically fast yet waste hours in arguments, lying, or exposure to indecent content. Although meeting the basic requirements, they undermine the spiritual essence of fasting and forfeit its higher rewards.
Prophetic Emphasis on the Tongue
“Whoever does not give up false speech and acting upon it, Allah has no need for him to give up his food and drink.“
(Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī)
Here, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ reminds us that the real transformation of fasting lies in purifying one’s character, not just refraining from physical acts.
The highest level of fasting belongs to those who are deeply devoted—Prophets, Ṣiddīqīn (the truthful), and Awliyā’ (saints). It involves near-complete detachment from worldly interests, coupled with continuous absorption in Allah’s remembrance.
Characteristics of Elite Fasting
Imam Al-Ghazali’s Analogy
He likens this level to standing before a great king: just as no servant would dare be heedless in the king’s presence, those who observe this elite fast immerse their hearts fully in Allah’s remembrance.
While Ordinary Fasting fulfills the required duty, the ultimate goal is to ascend to the higher levels. Imam Al-Ghazali outlines this progression in order:
Level | Focus | Who Achieves It |
Ordinary Fasting | Avoiding food, drink, and intimacy | Every Muslim |
Special Fasting | Controlling speech, senses, and actions | The Righteous |
Elite Fasting | Heart wholly detached from worldly concerns | Prophets, Saints, Spiritually devoted |
The more one advances, the more profound and transformative one’s worship becomes.
Practical Steps to Elevate Your Fast
Fasting is not merely a physical denial but a catalyst for drawing closer to Allah. It begins with the body, extends to moral conduct, and ultimately immerses the heart in constant devotion. This Ramadan, reflect on these questions:
May Allah grant us the ability to fast with our hearts, minds, and bodies, elevating our spiritual states and drawing us nearer to Him. Āmīn.
Disclaimer: This article offers a simplified exploration of fasting’s spiritual dimensions. For specific rulings tailored to personal circumstances, consult a knowledgeable scholar. May Allah guide us to perfect our worship both outwardly and inwardly.
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