Sawm
Identify one purpose of fasting stated in Qur'an 2:183.
Describe the practices of Sawm (fasting) during Ramadan.
Explain why Sawm (fasting during Ramadan) is important for Muslims.
First point
Make your first point: explain what Sawm involves and how Qur'an 2:183 connects fasting directly to the development of taqwa (righteousness and God-consciousness).
Second point
Make your second point: explain why Ramadan is spiritually special, its connection to the revelation of the Qur'an and the communal dimensions of worship during this month.
Third point
Make your third point: explain how Sawm builds genuine empathy for the poor and strengthens social bonds and charity within the Muslim community.
'The most important purpose of Sawm (fasting) is to develop taqwa (righteousness) in Muslims.' Assess this statement. You should refer to the significance of the passage provided, using your own or others' views to support your answer.
Passage: refer to this in your answer
O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous – [Fasting for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] – a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers excess – it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew. The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.
Suggested length: 250–350 words
Writing guides
- 1Agree: argue why developing taqwa, explicitly stated as the divine purpose of fasting in Qur'an 2:183, is the most important purpose of Sawm.
- 2Further agree: explain how the discipline of fasting trains Muslims in self-control, patience and God-consciousness in ways that benefit them throughout the whole year.
- 3Disagree: consider whether commemorating the revelation of the Qur'an in Ramadan, or building social solidarity and empathy for the poor, are equally or more important purposes of Sawm.
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