Islamic Worldview, Fasting and Health

Fasting effects on health and well-being. Although this effects were studied based on biological view, however there is a different view based on our Islamic teachings. Fasting is related to human virtues such as piety and cautious. These virtues are related to others characteristics in Islamic view which show the holistic view of Islam on health. In order to answer this question refer to Holy Qur’an which says in Chapter 2, Verse 183: ‘Believers, fasting is decreed for you as it was decreed for those before you; perchance you will be cautious’. As this verse shows fasting is related to piety and cautious. Here, the main function of fasting is not health but is another function which is piety. Therefore, fasting effects on health indirectly. As Fig.1 shows fasting alongside with other Muslim behavior such as attending Masque, daily Prayer, reading Qur'an, Devotion & Surrender, and Pilgrimage (HAJ) effect on several things. Human virtues such as forgiveness, honesty, self- discipline, altruism, generosity, humility, gratefulness, patience and dependability are affected by them. As we know these characteristics are important for being a healthy man. These items effect on all dimensions of health which are physical, psychological, social, and spiritual. Therefor piety leads to a features such as hope, contentment, patience and not being greedy. These characteristics leaded to our health and well-being generally. Theoretical and practical debates is recommended.