Imam al-Ghazali’s Inner Dimensions of Fasting & Dhikr

As Ramadan approaches, believers are invited not only to prepare their schedules, but to prepare their hearts.

In this special talk, Imam al-Ghazali’s Inner Dimensions of Fasting & Dhikr, Shaykha Dr. Rania Awaad draws on the spiritual wisdom of Abu Hamid al-Ghazali to explore how fasting and remembrance of Allah function as powerful tools for inner purification, self-discipline, and spiritual awakening.

Imam al-Ghazali teaches that fasting is not merely abstention from food and drink, but a practice that trains the soul to restrain desires, refine intentions, and cultivate awareness of Allah in every aspect of life. Likewise, Dhikr is not limited to repetition of words, but serves as a means of softening the heart, restoring balance, and anchoring faith in times of distraction and spiritual fatigue.

This lecture invites attendees to reflect on:

• The inner purpose of fasting beyond its outward form
• How Dhikr strengthens sincerity and spiritual presence
• Preparing for Ramadan as a season of renewal, not exhaustion
• Faith as an amānah that shapes character, restraint, and responsibility

As part of Minaretein’s Al-Imān Amānah initiative, this session frames Fasting and Dhikr as trusts entrusted to the believer — acts that shape character, accountability, and ethical presence long after Ramadan ends.

This gathering offers a timely opportunity to realign intentions, deepen understanding, and enter Ramadan with clarity, humility, and spiritual readiness.

About the Speaker

Dr. Rania Awaad, M.D., is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine, where she serves as Director of the Stanford Muslim Mental Health & Islamic Psychology Lab, as well as Affiliate Chaplain and Affiliate Professor of Islamic Studies.

Prior to studying medicine, she pursued classical Islamic studies in Damascus and holds ijazāt in the Qur’an—including the Ten Qirāʾāt—Islamic Law, and other Islamic sciences. She is the President and Co-Founder of Maristan, a holistic Muslim mental health nonprofit, and Director of The Rahmah Foundation, dedicated to educating Muslim women and girls.

Her work bridges classical Islamic spirituality, psychological well-being, and contemporary lived experience, offering depth, clarity, and compassion.