As Muslims around the world begin observing the holy month of Ramadan, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, the Mufti of Rwanda, encourages them to embrace the deeper meaning of fasting, focusing on spiritual reflection, empathy, and self-discipline.
ALSO READ: Ramadan: All you need to know about the holy month of fasting
Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, started on March 1, marking a month-long period of reflection, worship, and self-improvement. For Sheikh Sindayigaya, fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drinks. It is a time to deepen one’s connection with God, develop stronger self-discipline, and foster personal growth.
Sheikh Sindayigaya said that fasting is a time for spiritual retreat and an opportunity to reflect spiritually, grow in worship, and build a closer relationship with God.
"It’s also a moment of self-discipline that helps us become better people, both individually and within our communities.”
ALSO READ: Why Muslim community celebrates Ramadan
One of the most important lessons Ramadan offers is empathy. By fasting, Muslims gain a deeper understanding of hunger, which in turn motivates them to help the less fortunate. Sheikh Sindayigaya stressed that fasting provides a firsthand experience of the suffering faced by those who endure hunger daily, igniting a sense of compassion and the urge to assist those in need.
"When you feel hunger, you understand the suffering of those who experience it every day. This awareness drives us to offer help, be generous, and more compassionate. Ramadan teaches us to not only focus on personal worship but also to extend kindness and generosity to others,” he said.
ALSO READ: What Ramadan means to Muslims?
Another lesson highlighted by the Mufti is the importance of emotional control, particularly in managing anger.
"Ramadan teaches us to control our hunger, and by extension, our anger. Anger can be destructive, and fasting helps shield us from negative reactions. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said fasting acts as a shield. When provoked, we respond with calmness and patience, saying, ‘I am fasting’,” he said.
The self-restraint learned during Ramadan is not meant to be temporary. The Mufti stressed that Ramadan is a time for Muslims to develop habits and behaviours that will persist throughout the year, long after the fasting period ends.
"Ramadan is a training ground for better conduct in life. It’s a time to adopt better habits, not just for one month but for the long term. During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking, and engaging in sexual intercourse from dawn until sunset. But it’s not just about physical abstention, it’s about purifying oneself from negative behaviours like bad conduct and harmful actions,” he stressed.
Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a joyous occasion marking the completion of a month of devotion and growth. Sheikh Sindayigaya urges Rwandan Muslims to use this month wisely, focusing on worship and reflection, and praying for the country’s peace and prosperity.
"I encourage Muslims to dedicate this season to sincere worship and reflection, and to think about the needs of the less fortunate. May this month bring peace to our country, and may we all grow in faith and service to others,” he said.
He also called on Muslims to pray for national unity, peace, and security, specifically for the leadership of President Paul Kagame and the country’s future.
"We ask Allah to guide our leaders in leading the country toward sustainable development and prosperity.”
Sheikh Yusuf Mugisha, the Deputy of the Charity Committee in Rwanda, said that fasting is about purifying the soul and enhancing one’s consciousness of God. It’s also about fostering self-control in every aspect of life.
Sheikh Mugisha stressed the need for integrity during fasting. He added that managing the fasting period effectively involves prioritising prayer, planning meals wisely, and remaining mindful of energy levels throughout the day.