The Virtues of Ramadan -Fasting-Islamic Month

THE VIRTUES OF RAMADAAN

Fasting is a very testing means of worship
[Ibaadat], which was initially difficult for man to fulfill. It was thus
introduced gradually to man. The revelations concerning fasting were thus very
gradual. First, the fast of Aashurah was observed. Then, to fast on the 13th,
14th, and 15th of every lunar month was made voluntary. Then, fasting for the
entire month of Ramadan was made obligatory [Fard]. 

Why is the month of
Ramadan called Ramadan? There are numerous narrations concerning the name, but
some scholars have stated that the word Ramadan is derives from the Arabic root
R-M-Ḍ (ر-م-ض‎) “scorching heat”, which is the Classical Arabic verb
“ramidha (رَمِضَ)” meaning “become intensely hot – become
burning; become scorching; be blazing; be glowing” meaning it’s the month to
burn away the sin the impurities. 

Also, in another version “Ramadaa” refers to
the spring rains, which causes the earth to be cleansed and well soaked, so
that a healthy crop is achieved after the rains. Thus, the scholars have
mentioned, that the rains of mercy and blessing in the month of Ramadan cause
the heart to be cleansed and filled with light and blessings. This in turn prompts
a person to become more pious, thus reaping the benefits of the Rains of Mercy.
Whichever way one looks at Ramadan, it is definitely a month of Mercy and
blessings.