Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, spiritual reflection, and increased devotion in the Islamic faith. It is a time of introspection, self-discipline, and generosity. In preparation for Ramadan, many Muslims seek out resources to deepen their understanding and appreciation of this important month.

Ramadan months for the next years:

  • 2023: March 22 – April 20
  • 2024: March 10 – April 8
  • 2025: February 28 – March 29
  • 2626: February 17 – March 18

Books are a great source of knowledge and inspiration, and there are numerous titles available on the topic of Ramadan fasting. In this article, we will explore six excellent books about Islamic Ramadan fasting that are worth considering for your reading list this year.

These books cover a wide range of topics, including the spiritual significance of fasting, practical guidance for observing the fast, and personal reflections on the Ramadan experience. Whether you are a practicing Muslim or simply curious about Ramadan, these books offer valuable insights and perspectives on this important aspect of Islamic faith and culture.

Key Facts and Insights about Islamic Ramadan Fasting?

  • Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims observe a month-long fast from dawn until sunset.
  • Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundation of Muslim life.
  • The purpose of Ramadan fasting is to develop self-discipline, increase empathy for those who are less fortunate, and to draw closer to Allah through good deeds.
  • During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs such as smoking and sexual activity from dawn until sunset.
  • The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called iftar, which usually consists of dates and water followed by a larger meal.
  • Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal, is also eaten before the start of the fast to provide sustenance throughout the day.
  • Those who are exempt from fasting include children, the elderly, pregnant or nursing women, and those who are ill.
  • The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a festival that begins with special prayers and is celebrated with feasting, gift-giving, and other festivities.
  • The exact dates of Ramadan vary each year, as they are based on the sighting of the new moon, and it can last for 29 or 30 days.
  • In addition to fasting, Ramadan is a time for turning inside and pray, reading of the Quran, and charitable giving.

As harsh as it may seem first, Islamic Ramadan fasting is not that difficult. With these thoughts in mind, here are some excellent books to help you further understand Ramadan, the role of fasting, and how you can do it properly.

What Are Some Outstanding Books About Ramadan and Ramadan fasting?

Fast 2 Fit, by Sharfunnisa Quadri (2023)

Islamic Ramadan fasting comes with a plethora of benefits. Being able to fast will help you lose a bit of weight and get into shape while following the teachings of Prophet Mohammad (SAW).

This is one of the most detailed guides I’ve ever read. It encourages a religious approach, as well as a therapeutic one. Basically, you’ll grab the benefits of fasting from a spiritual point of view, but at the same time, you’ll do something useful for your body too.

The book brings in a plethora of delicious recipes to try out when you can eat, mainly based on foods mentioned in the Quran. They're ideal to fill you up but also to help you build muscle and burn fat.

Furthermore, you’ll learn more about the act of fasting and what worship means, as well as guidance and practical ways to adopt spiritual teachings from the Quran

While most other books in my list will teach you how to implement different fasting techniques and how they work on your body, this one will help you get in shape while fasting. It’s a must for every religious Muslim who needs to get in good physical condition.

A Guide to Ramadan and Fasting, by Musharaf Hussain and Abia Afsar-Siddiqui (2006)

This book on Islamic Ramadan fasting has everything you'll need to learn. It's one of the most comprehensive guides I've found, and it covers everything in small, easy to understand details.

The guide goes straight to the point and teaches you what Ramadan is, what fasting implies, and how you have to do it in a comfortable manner.

It all starts with the spiritual aspect of Ramadan, what it means, and what it represents. Then, you're slowly taken to the concept of fasting, why it's so important, and how you can actually benefit from it, apart from the spiritual aspect.

This book is suitable for those who have never fasted before, as well as those who do it on a yearly basis but struggle. The more you know about the process, the easier it becomes to assimilate it.

Essentials of Ramadan, by Tajuddin B Shu'aib (1991)

I’ll be honest with you, this isn’t among the most popular or recommended Islamic Ramadan fasting books, but it’s extremely well written and very easy to understand.

Fasting is an expression of Allah, and this book explains how it can get you closer, but at the same time, it underlines the importance of fasting. What can be better than fasting to cultivate and strengthen your discipline? Exactly!

It's about control, discipline, and strength. It goes through the fundamental laws of Ramadan and explains them with easy to follow instructions for everyone, including those who are just getting used to the concept of fasting.

This isn’t just about why you need to fast, but it’s also about how to do it in an easy and rewarding manner.

Ramadan and Fasting, by IqraSense (2013)

Ramadan and fasting go hand in hand. While lots of people know they’re associated, they only know the basics. The truth is Ramadan is much more sophisticated and comes with lots of other rules.

This book covers anything you can think of and provides answers to everything. Let me give you a few examples…

Discover the obligation of fasting, virtues of doing it, valid reasons to avoid it, prayers, the revelation of Quran, sin forgiveness, guidance, virtues of Quran, children and fasting, fasting and sickness, and so on.

You'll even learn more about less common things, such as issues related to traveling and sexual relations. Then, find out more about the etiquette of eating and drinking, women and their responsibilities, voluntary fasting, and much more.

To ease the process, the book brings in some tips and tricks to make this venture easier. At the same time, you’ll also find a checklist for Ramadan.

Ramadan the Month of Fasting, by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (2014)

Ramadan, the Month of Fasting, makes everything super simple and concise. It won't go into too many details, and it won't bore you with irrelevant stuff.

Instead, it makes Ramadan simple to understand by introducing you to the main rules, as well as the fundamental teachings of Quran during this period.

I read this very short but informative 20 pages book on Ramadan in 10 minutes. If you just want to grab a quick information source these pages will serve you.

Welcoming the Month of Ramadan, by Shaykh Ahmad Bin Yahya an-Najmi (2020)

If you think Ramadan and the fasting requirement is a challenge, this book will change your perception. Ramadan has multiple meanings. The book taught me how each of them benefits us in a positive way. It describes everything from a positive perspective, making you want to fast.

And while I do know it’s difficult, the teachings in this book will motivate you. Plus, you’ll learn a few simple ideas to make fasting a breeze. It’s a must for anyone who struggles with the fasting process.

Fasting from Alif to Yaa, by Umm Mujaahid Khadijah Bint Lacina al-Amreekeeyyah and Abu Hamzah Hudhaifah Ibn-Khalil (2012)

This Ramadan fasting book provides daily points of benefit and includes stories of the Prophets and Messengers, such as Aadam, Ibraaheem, Zakariyyah, and Mohammad, among others. The work also offers activities for the whole family to enjoy and benefit from for each day of Ramadan, as well as recipes for foods enjoyed by Muslims around the world.

In summary, this work aims to guide individuals on how to live Islaam as a way of life during the month of Ramadan. It includes daily points of benefit, stories of Prophets and Messengers, family activities, and recipes for Muslim cuisine.

Bottom line

Any of these Islamic Ramadan fasting books can bring in a bit of light. We all know the benefits of Ramadan and the spiritual meaning of fasting, but we do struggle at times, even if we don’t admit it.

These books not only provide practical tips and guidance for observing the Ramadan fast, but they also delve into the spiritual significance of the holy month and the profound benefits of fasting. Reading such books can help to deepen one's understanding and appreciation of the practice, while also providing inspiration and motivation to keep going, even on the most challenging days.

Whether you are a seasoned veteran of Ramadan fasting or a newcomer to the practice, these books can be a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their connection to their faith and to experience the transformative power of Ramadan.

So if you're looking for a way to make the most of this special time of year, consider picking up one of these books and allowing it to guide you on your journey towards greater spiritual growth and enlightenment.

If you are looking more resources on fasting check out our best diet books or if you would like to dig deeper into religions check out our religion book category.

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