Question

explain the topic "reading: a fast and diminishing virtue"

Answer 1

Answer:

Virtues of Fasting according to Quran and Hadith

Fasting in Ramadan is Obligation (Fardh):

It was narrated that Abu Umamah (R.A.) said: 

'I said: O Messenger of Allah, “Which deed is best?”. He (S.A.W.) said: “Take to fasting, for there is nothing equal to it."' (An-Nasai: 2224)

In this Hadith, the Prophet (S.A.W.) singled out fasting when asked about a deed that leads its doer to the best of rewards. This fact alone is sufficient for us to understand the greatness of fasting. 

Mere knowledge of the importance and superiority of fasting, however, is not enough for a Muslim to attain Allah's pleasure and then, InshaAllah, His great reward. 

The Prophet (S.A.W.) has said: 

"Perhaps a person fasting will receive nothing from his fasting except hunger and thirst." (Ibn Majah: 1690)

This Hadith should raise our concern about fasting and increase our desire to perform this act of worship with the best intention and in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.W.). 

When we speak of the merits of something (Fadl or Fadail), we are actually saying the deeds in it are highly recommended and the reward and benefits highly emphasized and guaranteed. There are many Hadiths and Quranic verses that address the merits/importance of fasting during Ramadan, and filling the entire month with more Ebadah (worship) than any other month.