The Nature Of Fasting-Ibn Taymiyyah

“The Nature of Fasting” is a specialized treatise derived from the extensive works of Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 728 AH), focusing on the jurisprudence (Fiqh), spiritual reality, and deeper purpose of Sawm (fasting). This book systematically addresses the rulings related to Ramadan, drawing conclusions directly from the Quran and Sunnah, often challenging reliance on restrictive madhhab (schools of law) positions. Ibn Taymiyyah stresses that true fasting goes beyond mere abstention from food and drink; it is essentially an act of sincerity (Ikhlas) and purification, demanding the believer’s organs and heart also abstain from sin and vain talk, thereby achieving the highest goals of Taqwa (God-consciousness).