Faithful Reflections

I. The Meaning of Fasting (Sawm) in Islam Fasting (Sawm) in Islam is a practice of spiritual training and self-control . During the holy month of Ramadan , a Muslim stops eating, drinking, and having sensual pleasures from the first light of dawn ( Fajr ) until the sun sets ( Maghrib ). This discipline is also a time to avoid bad behaviors like smoking, lying, gossiping, and swearing.    The main idea behind fasting is limitation. When we stop indulging, even for a short time, we gain a clearer view of what truly matters, which leads to spiritual renewal and stronger self-control. By accepting this daily limit for a month, the fast becomes a powerful spiritual lesson, leading to purification and renewed inner strength.    II. Fasting as Spiritual Growth and Taming the Soul The highest goal of fasting is spiritual cleansing and total submission to God ( Allah ). This is seen as a necessary part of the spiritual life.  ...

The Theological and Linguistic Architecture of Peace (Salam) The fundamental nature of Islam as a submission to the Divine Will is intrinsically linked to the concept of peace. This connection is not merely incidental but is embedded within the very linguistic structure and core theological nomenclature of the religion. The edifice of Islam, therefore, stands upon a foundation stone that structurally necessitates tranquillity and harmony. A. Etymological Analysis of the Triliteral Root S-L-M The Arabic word Islam is derived from the triliteral root S-L-M ( س ل م ). Academic linguistic analysis confirms that Islam literally translates to "submission" (to the will of God). Crucially, this submission is causatively related to salima, meaning "he was safe," and salam, meaning "peace". This etymological relationship establishes a profound theological principle: true, lasting safety and security—both internal and societal—are achieved only through principl...