Ramadan: More Than a Month—A Renewal of Life and Awakening of the Soul
The Difference Between Fitrah and Tabi’at, the Necessity of Fitrah’s Supremacy Over Tabi’at, and the True Meaning of Fasting
Mohammad Taukir Rahmani
EC Exclusive
A question often arises in the depths of human consciousness: If religion, as its own sources claim, is in perfect harmony with human nature, why do its laws sometimes feel burdensome? Why does religious commitment seem challenging? And why does an obligation like fasting—meant for spiritual purification and inner refinement—sometimes appear to be a source of hardship rather than ease?
This is not merely an emotional inquiry but an intellectual concern that stands at the crossroads of religion, philosophy, and psychology. If faith is founded upon human nature, why does this apparent contradiction exist? Even more intriguingly, the Shariah itself refers to its commandments as takleef (a responsibility or burden), while things aligned with nature are typically effortless, appealing, and devoid of difficulty. Then why is it that religion, which is the very counterpart of the human soul, sometimes feels like a test or trial?
This question is not superficial—it is a profound enigma that requires reason, logic, and spiritual insight to unravel. The answer not only touches upon human psychology but also sheds light on free will, material and spiritual needs, and the reality of life’s trials in this world.
The Difference Between Fitrah and Tabi’at
At the heart of this matter lies a fundamental distinction that most people overlook: the difference between fitrah (innate nature) and tabi’at (habitual disposition). These two are often mistaken as synonymous, but they are, in fact, separate realities with distinct demands.
Fitrah is the original mold in which the human soul was created—an intrinsic inclination towards truth, righteousness, and submission to Allah. It represents a person’s spiritual essence, their moral compass, and their longing for higher purpose.
Tabi’at, on the other hand, is the product of habit, environment, and experience. It encompasses physical desires, psychological inclinations, and tendencies shaped by upbringing and surroundings. While fitrah seeks spiritual growth and moral elevation, tabi’at gravitates toward comfort, indulgence, and worldly ease.
This distinction provides the key to understanding why religious obligations sometimes feel difficult. Since religion aligns with fitrah, it seeks the true well-being of a person. However, tabi’at, conditioned to comfort and ease, resists these demands. When Shariah commands an act, tabi’at, accustomed to indulgence, perceives it as a burden—even though that act is essential for the soul’s elevation.
Fasting: A Struggle Between the Soul and the Self
Fasting is the perfect example of this phenomenon. The fitrah desires discipline, self-control, and spiritual awakening. Yet, the tabi’at, accustomed to satisfying its cravings, resists. This internal struggle creates the sense of hardship that Shariah describes as takleef.
The same principle applies to all religious duties—prayer, charity, morality, and self-restraint. These are all in harmony with fitrah, yet the rebellious nature of tabi’at sometimes makes them feel burdensome. However, when a person trains their tabi’at to submit to fitrah, worship no longer feels like a struggle; instead, it becomes a source of inner peace and contentment.
This is the state where faith transitions from being a test to becoming a source of tranquility—just as the Quran affirms:
“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find peace.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d, 13:28)
The Purpose of Fasting: More Than Hunger and Thirst
Once this distinction is understood, another question naturally arises: What is the true purpose of fasting?
Fasting is not merely an act of abstaining from food and drink—it is a means of spiritual and moral refinement. Those who do not fast deprive themselves of its deeper wisdom. This worship is not just about enduring hunger but about cultivating discipline, purifying the soul, and realizing that true life is not about indulgence but about seeking closeness to the Creator.
Just as food, water, and movement are necessary for physical survival, spiritual sustenance is essential for the soul’s vitality. When a person neglects their spiritual obligations, they may appear alive outwardly, yet inwardly, their soul is lifeless. The Quran describes this state as:
“It is the same for them whether you warn them or do not warn them; they will not believe.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:6)
This verse reflects the reality of those who, though physically alive, are spiritually unresponsive—cut off from the essence of true existence.
Ramadan: A Time for Spiritual Awakening
The blessed month of Ramadan is an opportunity for this revival. It is the time when a person learns to overcome the rebellious nature of tabi’at and reconnect with the reality of fitrah. Fasting is not merely an experience of hunger—it is a discipline, a journey that unveils the true purpose of life.
Those who neglect this sacred month are not just missing out on an act of worship; they are depriving themselves of the very essence of spiritual vitality. Ramadan is not just a passing phase—it is a renewal of life, a reawakening of the soul, and a call to rediscover the path that leads to true fulfillment.
This is what makes Ramadan more than just a month—it is a transformation, an awakening, and a return to the pure essence of our being.
