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There’s an intriguing contrast in how different spiritual traditions approach the concept of fasting and religious discipline.

Some communities are particularly vocal in articulating their disdain for fasting as a worthless ritual practice, while simultaneously requiring adherents to observe what many outsiders would consider ritual practices themselves.

At first glance, criticisms of fasting alongside emphasis on maintaining certain visible symbols of faith might seem inconsistent. However, this apparent contradiction actually seems to be rooted in distinct understandings of ritualism and discipline within various thought traditions, each with their own internal coherence and spiritual logic.

There are those who argue that fasting is a hollow ritual if practised merely for religious merit rather than for a meaningful purpose. Some spiritual teachings stress the importance of internal devotion, ethical conduct, and self-discipline over external rituals that lack spiritual intention.

From their perspective, depriving oneself of food does not inherently bring one closer to God or improve one’s moral character. Instead, continuous remembrance of the divine, honest labour, and service to others are encouraged as more meaningful practices.

Yet, at the same time, certain visible symbols of faith are considered essential for adherents of this view, as they serve as constant reminders of spiritual values and commitment to discipline. Unlike fasting, which some view as an arbitrary act of self-denial, these symbols are seen as an active, lived expression of faith that shapes daily conduct and identity.

From an Islamic standpoint, most Muslims would reject the characterisation of fasting as mere ritualism, viewing it instead as a profound practice of self-discipline and spiritual purification.

In Islam, fasting during Ramadan is not simply about abstaining from food and drink but encompasses a holistic restraint of desires, refinement of character, and strengthening of one’s connection with God.

Sawm (fasting) represents a form of embodied worship designed to cultivate sabr (patience), shukr (gratitude), and compassion for those less fortunate. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, taught that fasting is a shield, protecting the believer from harmful actions and speech.

Far from being an empty ritual, it serves as a spiritual reset—a month-long immersion in taqwa (God-consciousness) that is meant to influence behaviour throughout the entire year.

Of course, various traditions have developed sophisticated theological frameworks that distinguish between meaningful religious practice and empty ritualism.

Some traditions view ritualistic practices critically when divorced from genuine spiritual engagement, while emphasising disciplined living with conscious intention as the ideal.

In Islamic thought, the concepts of niyyah (intention), ikhlas (sincerity), and khushu (mindful humility) are crucial in distinguishing meaningful worship from mere mechanical performance of rituals. Scholars emphasise that the outward form must be accompanied by inward spiritual presence.

This contrast highlights a potential challenge for mutual understanding between different perspectives.

Muslims may perceive critiques of fasting as misunderstanding a practice that, within Islam, represents not an empty ritual but a deeply transformative spiritual discipline with profound effects on the individual and community.

Those who question fasting may view the emphasis on prescribed practices like fasting as potentially prioritising form over substance, while Muslims would counter that the form itself, when approached with proper intention, facilitates spiritual growth.

What makes this comparison particularly fascinating is how different traditions embody religious commitment.

Some traditions uphold visible symbols as daily, tangible markers of discipline and commitment, serving as reminders of one’s spiritual covenant and values of courage, equality, and service.

Muslims, meanwhile, uphold fasting as an annual, intensive period of heightened discipline that recalibrates the spiritual compass, reinforces community bonds, and deepens awareness of divine presence in daily life.

Each tradition has developed distinct approaches to embodying religious commitment. The emphasis on continuous, visible identity markers in some traditions and the Muslim focus on intensive seasonal worship may both represent valid paths to spiritual discipline—they simply define “meaningful discipline” in different ways based on their historical contexts and theological foundations.

Despite these differences, many spiritual traditions share fundamental values: the importance of self-restraint, remembrance of God, service to humanity, and the rejection of empty ritualism. Various traditions emphasise that external practices should reflect and reinforce internal spiritual states.

Understanding these nuances can help foster greater respect between communities. What might appear contradictory from the outside often has a coherent internal logic when viewed through the lens of each tradition’s unique spiritual framework.

Through interfaith dialogue that acknowledges these different approaches to ritual and discipline, communities might discover unexpected parallels in their spiritual journeys, even as they maintain their distinct religious identities. Now, that would be progress, wouldn’t it?