Seekersguidance Podcast - Islam, Islamic Knowledge, Quran, And The Guidance Of The Prophet Muhammad

In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz highlights the verses 183-186 of Surat al-Baqara, which are the verses on fasting and Ramadan. They correspond to the sixth chapter of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya on fasting. He tells us about the aims of fasting through these verses, and gives some key meanings of those aims and tips on how to attain them. In verse 183 of Surat al-Baqara, Allah tells us that “Believers! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of God.” (يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ). First, Shaykh Faraz explains the balance and significance of corresponding with the people of book and faith before Islam. He clarifies the difference between corresponding and following, and how correspondence gives a sense of continuity of guidance. Shaykh Faraz then explains the concept of taqwa (mindfulness of Allah). He defines it as guarding oneself from the displeasure of Allah.