Green Bridge Learning Resource For Sawm (Fasting)

Overview

Fasting, known as Sawm in Islam, holds a significant place in the practice of faith for Muslims worldwide. It is a fundamental pillar of Islam, observed with great devotion and commitment by the believers. This course material delves deep into the intricate details of Sawm, focusing on its spiritual, social, and moral objectives.

Understanding the meaning and significance of Sawm is paramount for every Muslim. Sawm goes beyond abstaining from food and drink; it involves a profound level of self-discipline, control, and sincerity in one's intentions. By refraining from physical desires during designated times, believers aim to attain spiritual closeness to Allah and heighten their consciousness of Him.

In the realm of Islamic theology, Sawm serves as a powerful tool for strengthening one's faith (Iman) and fostering a deeper connection with the divine. Through the act of fasting, Muslims reaffirm their obedience to Allah, realizing that true sustenance comes from Him alone. It is a period of intense devotion and reflection, allowing individuals to purify their souls and seek forgiveness for past transgressions.

Furthermore, this course material explores the types of Sawm in Islam, distinguishing between compulsory fasts such as Ramadan, Kaffarah, and Nadr, and voluntary fasts like Shitta Shawwal and 'Ashura'. Each type has its unique spiritual significance and rewards, offering believers various avenues to express their dedication to Allah.

Moreover, the material delves into the examples of compulsory fast and voluntary fast, elucidating the specific guidelines and practices associated with each type. By examining the stories of Prophets like Ibrahim, Musa, and Isa, who exemplified unwavering faith and obedience to Allah, students gain valuable insights into the essence of fasting as a form of worship and submission.

Additionally, the course material sheds light on how fasting is observed in Islam, including the pre-dawn meal (Suhur), the evening meal to break the fast (Iftar), and the importance of engaging in additional acts of worship and charity during the blessed month of Ramadan. By adhering to the prescribed rituals and maintaining a pure intention, believers elevate their spiritual state and draw closer to Allah.

Furthermore, learners will explore the criteria for those exempted from fasting, understanding the compassionate nature of Islamic teachings that accommodate individuals facing genuine hardships or health conditions. By acknowledging the nuanced considerations in matters of fasting, students develop a holistic understanding of religious practices and the principle of mercy in Islam.

Lastly, the course material highlights the benefits and significance of Sawm, emphasizing its far-reaching impacts on an individual and society. Beyond the spiritual rewards, fasting fosters empathy, solidarity, and self-discipline among community members, reinforcing the moral fabric of the ummah and promoting values of compassion and gratitude.

Objectives

Appreciate the Benefits and Significance of Sawm in terms of its Spiritual, Social, and Moral aspects
Recognize the Types of Sawm in Islam
Recognize Things that Vitiate the Fast
Identify Those Exempted From Fasting
Learn about the Examples of Compulsory Fast and Voluntary Fast
Understand the Meaning and Significance of Sawm
Understand How Fasting is Observed in Islam

Lesson Note

Not Available

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Sawm (Fasting). Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

Describe the spiritual, social, and moral objectives of Sawm (Fasting) in Islam. A. Fasting helps individuals develop self-discipline and control over their desires. B. Fasting encourages empathy and compassion towards the less fortunate. C. Fasting promotes spiritual reflection and closeness to Allah. D. All of the above. Answer: All of the above
What are the types of Sawm in Islam? A. Compulsory Fast only B. Voluntary Fast only C. Both Compulsory and Voluntary Fast D. None of the above Answer: Both Compulsory and Voluntary Fast
Which of the following is an example of a compulsory fast in Islam? A. Fasting on Mondays B. Fasting in the month of Shawwal C. Fasting on the Day of Ashura D. Fasting in the month of Rabi' al-Awwal Answer: Fasting on the Day of Ashura
Who among the following is exempted from fasting in Islam? A. Elderly individuals B. Pregnant women C. Travelers D. All of the above Answer: All of the above
What are some things that vitiate the fast in Islam? A. Eating or drinking intentionally B. Intentional vomiting C. Sexual relations D. All of the above Answer: All of the above
Explain the significance of Sawm in Islam. A. Sawm instills discipline and self-control in individuals. B. Sawm fosters a sense of community and unity among Muslims. C. Sawm purifies the soul and strengthens faith. D. All of the above Answer: All of the above
Discuss how fasting is observed in Islam. A. Fasting from dawn until sunset B. Breaking the fast with dates and water C. Opening the fast with a communal meal called Iftar D. All of the above Answer: All of the above
Identify the Ulu1-‘Azm prophets mentioned in the topic of Sawm (Fasting). A. Ibrahim (A.S.) B. Nuh (A.S.) C. Musa (A.S.) D. All of the above Answer: All of the above
Explain the distinction between Qada' and Qadar in Islam. A. Qada' refers to predestination, while Qadar refers to divine decree. B. Qada' is the measurement of time, while Qadar is the measurement of distance. C. Qada' is the practice of fasting, while Qadar is the practice of charity. D. None of the above Answer: Qada' refers to predestination, while Qadar refers to divine decree
Describe the benefits of Sawm in terms of its spiritual, social, and moral aspects. A. Spiritual benefits include strengthening faith and seeking forgiveness. B. Social benefits involve fostering empathy and unity within the community. C. Moral benefits encompass developing self-discipline and patience. D. All of the above Answer: All of the above

Recommended Books

	The Fundamentals of Tawheed (Islamic Monotheism) Subtitle Understanding the Islamic concept of monotheism Genre RELIGION_SPIRITUALITY_AND_NEW_AGE Publisher Islamic Book Service Year 2008 ISBN 978-8171513229 Description This book delves into the central concept of Tawheed in Islam, exploring the belief in the Oneness of Allah.
	Fiqh Made Easy Subtitle Simplified explanation of Islamic Jurisprudence Genre RELIGION_SPIRITUALITY_AND_NEW_AGE Publisher Darussalam Year 2010 ISBN 978-6035000956 Description A comprehensive guide to understanding the practical aspects of Islamic law and practices.