Fasting Is a Shield for Muslims

Fasting holds a special position in Islamic teachings because it is not only an act of worship but also a shield for a Muslim. In several hadiths, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explained that fasting functions as a shield protecting a person from various desires and from the punishment of the Fire of Hell. Therefore, fasting is regarded as one of the deeds that can safeguard oneself while opening the door to great virtue in the month of Ramadan.

Imam an-Nasa’i narrates, from Mutharrif, a man from Bani Amir bin Sha’sha’ah, Usman bin Abi al-Ash invited him to drink milk, then Mutharrif said: “Truly I am fasting.” Then Usman bin Abi al-Ash said: “I have heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say: Fasting is a shield like the shield of one of you in warfare.” In another narration it is said, “Fasting is a shield from the Fire of Hell like the shield of one of you in warfare.” Concerning the above hadith, some interpret it as the protector and cover from the Fire of Hell. Others interpret it as the shield from the lusts which pull a servant into Hell.