Before this, Muslims used to fast voluntarily, but it was during this Ramadan that the obligation of fasting was revealed in the Qur’an, as Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183):
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous”
Upon receiving this commandment from Allah, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions began to observe the fast during the month of Ramadan. This was a significant moment in Islamic history, as it marked the formal establishment of one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
The first Ramadan fast for the early Muslim community was a challenging experience, as they were not yet accustomed to the rigors of fasting for an entire month. However, they persevered and found strength in their faith and their sense of community.
Today, Muslims all over the world continue to observe the fast of Ramadan every year, following in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions. It is a time of spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and community building, as Muslims come together to break their fasts and engage in acts of charity and worship.