** can I fast every single day of my life?? **
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AdamMuslim
Junior Member
Besm Allah,
Dear brother,
Fasting all days is not permissible in Isalm.
At most you can fast one day and give up fasting for a day. This is the fasting of the prophet Daoud (David) PBUH.
and Allah Knows the best.
Dear brother,
Fasting all days is not permissible in Isalm.
At most you can fast one day and give up fasting for a day. This is the fasting of the prophet Daoud (David) PBUH.
and Allah Knows the best.
The best fast was the fast Prophet Dawood(alaysalaam)
Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: "Allah's Apostle(SWA) was informed that I had taken an oath to fast daily and to pray (every night) all the night throughout my life (so Allah's Apostle(SWA) came to me and asked whether it was correct): I replied, "Let my parents be sacrificed for you! I said so." The Prophet(SWA) said, "You can not do that. So, fast for few days and give it up for few days, pray and sleep. Fast three days a month as the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times and that will be equal to one year of fasting." I replied, "I can do better than that." The Prophet(SWA) said to me, "Fast one day and give up fasting for a day and that is the fasting of Prophet David(AS) and that is the best fasting." I said, "I have the power to fast better (more) than that." The Prophet(SWA) said, "There is no better fasting than that." (Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 197)"
There are more hadeeth which state it is forbidden to fast everyday of your life.
Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: "Allah's Apostle(SWA) was informed that I had taken an oath to fast daily and to pray (every night) all the night throughout my life (so Allah's Apostle(SWA) came to me and asked whether it was correct): I replied, "Let my parents be sacrificed for you! I said so." The Prophet(SWA) said, "You can not do that. So, fast for few days and give it up for few days, pray and sleep. Fast three days a month as the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times and that will be equal to one year of fasting." I replied, "I can do better than that." The Prophet(SWA) said to me, "Fast one day and give up fasting for a day and that is the fasting of Prophet David(AS) and that is the best fasting." I said, "I have the power to fast better (more) than that." The Prophet(SWA) said, "There is no better fasting than that." (Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 197)"
There are more hadeeth which state it is forbidden to fast everyday of your life.
AdamMuslim
Junior Member
Dear brother,
I mean that for exemple you can't fast Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and so on.
Rather you may fast for exemple Monday, Wednesday, Friday(1), Sunday and so on.
This kind of fasting is called the fasting of the prophet Daoud (David) PBUH.
I hope this is clear.
(1) It is not allowed to fast Friday without fasting a day before or after.
I mean that for exemple you can't fast Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and so on.
Rather you may fast for exemple Monday, Wednesday, Friday(1), Sunday and so on.
This kind of fasting is called the fasting of the prophet Daoud (David) PBUH.
I hope this is clear.
(1) It is not allowed to fast Friday without fasting a day before or after.
massi
Junior Member
Days on which it is prescribed to observe naafil (supererogatory) fasts
Question:
I would like to learn the exact time for iftar and sahur, how many days in month one should fast, exactly which day of the week it supposed to be as well.Please provide me with as much as you can details about that.
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
By His Wisdom, Allaah has prescribed that His slaves should voluntarily seek to draw closer to Him, after performing the obligatory acts of worship, by doing more of the same kinds of acts of worship, and He has assigned to that great rewards, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us that his Lord said: “My slave does not draw near to Me with anything more beloved to Me than the religious duties I have enjoined upon him, and My slave continues to draw near to Me with supererogatory works so that I will love him, When I love him, I am his hearing with which he hears, he seeing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes and his foot with which he walks. Were he to ask [something] of Me, I would surely give it to him, and were he to ask Me for refuge, I would surely grant him it.” (al-Bukhaari, 6502).
Naafil fasts fall into two main categories:
1 – General voluntary fasts (i.e., not restricted to any particular time or circumstances). The Muslim may observe a voluntary fast on any day of the year that he wishes, except those which are known to be forbidden, such as the two Eid days, on which fasting is haraam, and Ayaam al-Tashreeq (the three days following Eid al-Adha), on which fasting is haraam except on Hajj for those who do not have a hadiy (animal for sacrifice). Also excluded is deliberately singling out Friday for fasting, because it was reported that this is not allowed. One of the best forms of voluntary fasting is to fast alternate days for those who are able to do that, as it says in the hadeeth: “The most beloved prayer to Allaah is the prayer of Dawood (peace be upon him), and the most beloved fasting to Allaah is the fasting of Dawood. He used to sleep half the night, stand in prayer for one-third of the night, and sleep for one-sixth, and he used to fast alternate days.” (al-Bukhaari, 1131; Muslim, 1159). In order for this kind of fasting to be regarded as virtuous, it should not weaken a person and make him unable to do his primary duties, as it says in the hadeeth: “he used to fast alternate days, and he never ran away from battle (because he used to break his fast at times of jihad).” (al-Bukhaari, 1977; Muslim, 1159)
2 – Specific voluntary fasts. These are superior to general voluntary fasts, and are of two types:
The first type is fasts which are specific to a type of person, such as young men who cannot get married, as mentioned in the hadeeth of ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mas’ood (may Allaah be pleased with him): “We were young men with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and we did not have anything (i.e., we could not afford to get married). The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to us, ‘O young men, whoever among you can afford to get married, then let him do so, for it is more effective in lowering the gaze and guarding chastity. And whoever is not able to do that, then let him fast, for that will be a shield for him.’” (al-Bukhaari, 5066; Muslim, 1400).
This kind of fasting is more emphasized so long as a person is single, and this prescription is more emphatic the more provocation there is. There is no mention of any specific number of days in this case.
The second type is fasts prescribed at specific times, which vary, with some being weekly, some monthly and some annual. The weekly fasts are on Monday and Thursday, on which days fasting is mustahabb. It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was keen to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.” (al-Nasaa’i, 2320; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ al-Sagheer, 4827). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, and he said: “Those are two days on which people’s deeds are shown to the Lord of the Worlds, and I want my deeds to be shown to Him when I am fasting.” (al-Nasaa’i, 2358; Ibn Maajah, 1740; Ahmad, 8161; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1583). He was asked about fasting on Mondays and he said, “On that day I was born and on that day revelation came to me.” (Muslim, 1162).
With regard to the monthly fasts, it is mustahabb to fast on three days of each month. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “My close friend [i.e., the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)] advised me to do three things which I will never give up until I die: fasting three days each month, praying Duha, and sleeping after praying Witr.” (al-Bukhaari, 1178; Muslim, 721). It is mustahabb to observe this fast in the middle of the hijri month, on the days called Ayaam al-Beed. It was narrated that Abu Dharr said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to me, ‘If you fast any part of the month then fast on the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth.’” (al-Nasaa’i, 2424; Ibn Maajah, 1707; Ahmad, 210; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ al-Sagheer, 673).
Annual fasts are observed on specific days, or during periods when it is Sunnah to fast.
The specific days include the following:
1- The day of ‘Aashoora’ which is the tenth of Muharram. It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Aashoora’. He said, “I do not know of any day on the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted that was better than this day and any month that was better than this month, meaning Ramadaan.” (al-Bukhaari, 2006; Muslim, 1132). It is Sunnah to fast the day before or the day after along with ‘Aashoora’, in order to be different from the Jews.
2- The day of ‘Arafaah, which is the ninth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah. It is mustahabb only for those who are not standing in ‘Arafaah itself, as the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said concerning the virtue of the three fasts mentioned above: “The observance of three days' fast every month and that of Ramadan every year is equivalent to fasting for the entire year. I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Arafaah may atone for the sins of the preceding and the coming years, and I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Aashoora’ may atone for the sins of the preceding year.” (Muslim, 1162).
The periods during which it is Sunnah to fast include the following:
1- The month of Shawwaal. It is Sunnah to fast six days of Shawwaal, because the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan then fasts six days of Shawwaal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime.” (Muslim, 1164). See also Question no. 7859.
2- The month of Muharraam: it is Sunnah to fast whatever one can of this month, because of the hadeeth: “The best of fasting after Ramadaan is the month of Allaah Muharram, and the best of prayer after the obligatory prayers is prayer at night (qiyaam al-layl).” (Muslim, 1163).
3- The month of Sha’baan, as it was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast until we thought that he would never break his fast, and he would not fast until we thought that he would never fast. I never saw the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fast an entire month apart from Ramadaan, and the month in which I saw him fast the most was Sha’baan. He used to fast all of Sha’baan or all of it apart from a few days.” (al-Bukhaari, 1969; Muslim, 1156).
The Muslim who is keen to do good must realize the great virtue of performing voluntary fasts for the sake of Allaah, as it says in the hadeeth of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will keep his face seventy years’ distance from Hell,” (al-Nasaa’i, 2247; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Sunan al-Nasaa’i, 2121).
We ask Allaah to make us among those whose faces He keeps far away from Hell and its heat, and to bless us with Paradise.
With regard to the precise timing of Suhoor and Iftaar:
As mentioned in the definition of fasting, fasting means abstaining from food, drink and all other things that break the fast from dawn until sunset, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your Sawm (fast) till the nightfall”
[al-Baqarah 2:187]
So the fasting person must begin to abstain from things that break the fast when dawn begins and continue until the sun has set. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said concerning the time of iftaar: “When the night has come from here and the day has gone from here, and the sun has set, then let the fasting person break his fast.” (al-Bukhaari, 1818; Muslim, 1841). With regard to the time of suhoor, the majority of fuqaha’ said that it is the time from the last half of the night until the second dawn. It is Sunnah to delay it, according to the majority of scholars, so long as the second dawn has not begun, because of the verse quoted above and because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Hasten iftaar and delay suhoor.” (Narrated by al-Tabaraani and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3989). The purpose of suhoor is to give one strength to fast, so the closer it is to dawn the more effective it will be in helping one to fast. We ask Allaah to make us among those who adhere to His laws and act according to them. May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad.
Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
http://www.islam-qa.com/index.php?ref=21979&ln=eng
Question:
I would like to learn the exact time for iftar and sahur, how many days in month one should fast, exactly which day of the week it supposed to be as well.Please provide me with as much as you can details about that.
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
By His Wisdom, Allaah has prescribed that His slaves should voluntarily seek to draw closer to Him, after performing the obligatory acts of worship, by doing more of the same kinds of acts of worship, and He has assigned to that great rewards, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us that his Lord said: “My slave does not draw near to Me with anything more beloved to Me than the religious duties I have enjoined upon him, and My slave continues to draw near to Me with supererogatory works so that I will love him, When I love him, I am his hearing with which he hears, he seeing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes and his foot with which he walks. Were he to ask [something] of Me, I would surely give it to him, and were he to ask Me for refuge, I would surely grant him it.” (al-Bukhaari, 6502).
Naafil fasts fall into two main categories:
1 – General voluntary fasts (i.e., not restricted to any particular time or circumstances). The Muslim may observe a voluntary fast on any day of the year that he wishes, except those which are known to be forbidden, such as the two Eid days, on which fasting is haraam, and Ayaam al-Tashreeq (the three days following Eid al-Adha), on which fasting is haraam except on Hajj for those who do not have a hadiy (animal for sacrifice). Also excluded is deliberately singling out Friday for fasting, because it was reported that this is not allowed. One of the best forms of voluntary fasting is to fast alternate days for those who are able to do that, as it says in the hadeeth: “The most beloved prayer to Allaah is the prayer of Dawood (peace be upon him), and the most beloved fasting to Allaah is the fasting of Dawood. He used to sleep half the night, stand in prayer for one-third of the night, and sleep for one-sixth, and he used to fast alternate days.” (al-Bukhaari, 1131; Muslim, 1159). In order for this kind of fasting to be regarded as virtuous, it should not weaken a person and make him unable to do his primary duties, as it says in the hadeeth: “he used to fast alternate days, and he never ran away from battle (because he used to break his fast at times of jihad).” (al-Bukhaari, 1977; Muslim, 1159)
2 – Specific voluntary fasts. These are superior to general voluntary fasts, and are of two types:
The first type is fasts which are specific to a type of person, such as young men who cannot get married, as mentioned in the hadeeth of ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mas’ood (may Allaah be pleased with him): “We were young men with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and we did not have anything (i.e., we could not afford to get married). The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to us, ‘O young men, whoever among you can afford to get married, then let him do so, for it is more effective in lowering the gaze and guarding chastity. And whoever is not able to do that, then let him fast, for that will be a shield for him.’” (al-Bukhaari, 5066; Muslim, 1400).
This kind of fasting is more emphasized so long as a person is single, and this prescription is more emphatic the more provocation there is. There is no mention of any specific number of days in this case.
The second type is fasts prescribed at specific times, which vary, with some being weekly, some monthly and some annual. The weekly fasts are on Monday and Thursday, on which days fasting is mustahabb. It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was keen to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.” (al-Nasaa’i, 2320; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ al-Sagheer, 4827). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, and he said: “Those are two days on which people’s deeds are shown to the Lord of the Worlds, and I want my deeds to be shown to Him when I am fasting.” (al-Nasaa’i, 2358; Ibn Maajah, 1740; Ahmad, 8161; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1583). He was asked about fasting on Mondays and he said, “On that day I was born and on that day revelation came to me.” (Muslim, 1162).
With regard to the monthly fasts, it is mustahabb to fast on three days of each month. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “My close friend [i.e., the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)] advised me to do three things which I will never give up until I die: fasting three days each month, praying Duha, and sleeping after praying Witr.” (al-Bukhaari, 1178; Muslim, 721). It is mustahabb to observe this fast in the middle of the hijri month, on the days called Ayaam al-Beed. It was narrated that Abu Dharr said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to me, ‘If you fast any part of the month then fast on the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth.’” (al-Nasaa’i, 2424; Ibn Maajah, 1707; Ahmad, 210; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ al-Sagheer, 673).
Annual fasts are observed on specific days, or during periods when it is Sunnah to fast.
The specific days include the following:
1- The day of ‘Aashoora’ which is the tenth of Muharram. It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Aashoora’. He said, “I do not know of any day on the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted that was better than this day and any month that was better than this month, meaning Ramadaan.” (al-Bukhaari, 2006; Muslim, 1132). It is Sunnah to fast the day before or the day after along with ‘Aashoora’, in order to be different from the Jews.
2- The day of ‘Arafaah, which is the ninth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah. It is mustahabb only for those who are not standing in ‘Arafaah itself, as the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said concerning the virtue of the three fasts mentioned above: “The observance of three days' fast every month and that of Ramadan every year is equivalent to fasting for the entire year. I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Arafaah may atone for the sins of the preceding and the coming years, and I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of ‘Aashoora’ may atone for the sins of the preceding year.” (Muslim, 1162).
The periods during which it is Sunnah to fast include the following:
1- The month of Shawwaal. It is Sunnah to fast six days of Shawwaal, because the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan then fasts six days of Shawwaal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime.” (Muslim, 1164). See also Question no. 7859.
2- The month of Muharraam: it is Sunnah to fast whatever one can of this month, because of the hadeeth: “The best of fasting after Ramadaan is the month of Allaah Muharram, and the best of prayer after the obligatory prayers is prayer at night (qiyaam al-layl).” (Muslim, 1163).
3- The month of Sha’baan, as it was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast until we thought that he would never break his fast, and he would not fast until we thought that he would never fast. I never saw the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fast an entire month apart from Ramadaan, and the month in which I saw him fast the most was Sha’baan. He used to fast all of Sha’baan or all of it apart from a few days.” (al-Bukhaari, 1969; Muslim, 1156).
The Muslim who is keen to do good must realize the great virtue of performing voluntary fasts for the sake of Allaah, as it says in the hadeeth of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will keep his face seventy years’ distance from Hell,” (al-Nasaa’i, 2247; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Sunan al-Nasaa’i, 2121).
We ask Allaah to make us among those whose faces He keeps far away from Hell and its heat, and to bless us with Paradise.
With regard to the precise timing of Suhoor and Iftaar:
As mentioned in the definition of fasting, fasting means abstaining from food, drink and all other things that break the fast from dawn until sunset, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your Sawm (fast) till the nightfall”
[al-Baqarah 2:187]
So the fasting person must begin to abstain from things that break the fast when dawn begins and continue until the sun has set. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said concerning the time of iftaar: “When the night has come from here and the day has gone from here, and the sun has set, then let the fasting person break his fast.” (al-Bukhaari, 1818; Muslim, 1841). With regard to the time of suhoor, the majority of fuqaha’ said that it is the time from the last half of the night until the second dawn. It is Sunnah to delay it, according to the majority of scholars, so long as the second dawn has not begun, because of the verse quoted above and because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Hasten iftaar and delay suhoor.” (Narrated by al-Tabaraani and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3989). The purpose of suhoor is to give one strength to fast, so the closer it is to dawn the more effective it will be in helping one to fast. We ask Allaah to make us among those who adhere to His laws and act according to them. May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad.
Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
http://www.islam-qa.com/index.php?ref=21979&ln=eng
lostlilly07
striving 4 Firadous
wa alaikum salaam I am in between a break right now....but I also know you can not fast on Friday because it is consider an EID, insha'allah tonight I will have the daleel posted.
Combining the fast of Dawood and fasting on Mondays and Thursdays
Question:
I know that fasting every other day is the best way of fasting as in the hadith that this is the fasting of Prophet Dawood, alyhi assalam..
but, how can i fast Mondays and Thursdays, and also fast every other day like the Sunnah..? because sometimes Monday or Thursday doesn't fall in the order..like if i fast like the way Prophet Dawood did, i would fast for example: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday..etc. so sometimes Thursday doesn't fall in the order, or Monday..
I hope my question is clear..
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Islam has brought different kinds of acts of worship, and this is part of the perfection of this religion. There are acts of worship which can be combined with others and other acts of worship which cannot be combined. Fasting on alternate days is one independent type of worship; it is a kind of voluntary fast, and it is the best kind.
Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is another independent type of worship. It cannot be imagined that it is possible to combine the two on an ongoing basis. The better kind should be given preference, but a person should take his own situation and strength into account, so he should not start something that he will not be able to continue – in the case of naafil deeds – because the most beloved of deeds to Allaah is that which is continuous, even if it is little. And Allaah is the source of strength.
Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
Question:
I know that fasting every other day is the best way of fasting as in the hadith that this is the fasting of Prophet Dawood, alyhi assalam..
but, how can i fast Mondays and Thursdays, and also fast every other day like the Sunnah..? because sometimes Monday or Thursday doesn't fall in the order..like if i fast like the way Prophet Dawood did, i would fast for example: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday..etc. so sometimes Thursday doesn't fall in the order, or Monday..
I hope my question is clear..
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Islam has brought different kinds of acts of worship, and this is part of the perfection of this religion. There are acts of worship which can be combined with others and other acts of worship which cannot be combined. Fasting on alternate days is one independent type of worship; it is a kind of voluntary fast, and it is the best kind.
Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is another independent type of worship. It cannot be imagined that it is possible to combine the two on an ongoing basis. The better kind should be given preference, but a person should take his own situation and strength into account, so he should not start something that he will not be able to continue – in the case of naafil deeds – because the most beloved of deeds to Allaah is that which is continuous, even if it is little. And Allaah is the source of strength.
Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
Fasting al-Ayyaam al-Beed is done according to the lunar calendar, not the solar
Question:
I am a "New" Muslim (or recently converted) and I thank Allah for guiding me to this truly happiest move I've made in my life. Among all the other ways to worship the Allah, I appreciate very much the issue of fasting. I have truly enjoyed my first Ramadan this year and went through all 30 days with pride and great faith. I'm also very interested in voluntary fasting and besides fasting Thursdays, I''ve been also fasting during the White Days (13,14,15 every months). However, I've realized that I've been fasting 13,14,15 according to Georgian, normal calendar, and not according to an Islamic one! Is what I have done really wrong? Does it annul my fasting? What shall I do in the future? Thank you very much in advance!
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
First of all, congratulations on the blessing of Allaah which you have received, as He has guided you to this religion and caused you to enjoy the sweetness of obedience and worship through fasting, which is one of the greatest forms of worship. Here we will explain in brief the virtues of fasting.
The virtues of fasting are immense, and a number of saheeh ahaadeeth state this, such as the following:
Fasting is something which is just for Allaah, and Allaah will give multiple rewards without measure for it. The hadeeth says: “[Allaah says:] Fasting is Mine and it is I Who give reward for it.” (Al-Bukhaari, Fath, no. 1904)
“There is nothing equivalent to fasting.” (Al-Nisaa’i, 4/165; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/413)
“The prayer (du’aa’) of the fasting person will not be refused.” (Reported by al-Bayhaqi, 3/345; see also al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 1797)
“The one who fasts has two joys: the joy of breaking his fast and, when he meets his Lord, the joy of having fasted.” (Reported by Muslim, 2/807)
Fasting will be an intercession for the slave on the Day of Resurrection, when it will say: “O Lord, I stopped him from eating and drinking during the day, so let me intercede for him.” (Reported by Ahmad, 2/174; al-Bayhaqi classed its isnaad as hasan in al-Mujtama’, 3/181; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/411).
“The smell (coming from the mouth of) the fasting person is better in the sight of Allaah than the scent of musk.” (Muslim, 2/808).
“Fasting is a protection and a strong fortress against the Fire.” (Reported by Ahmad, 2/402; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/411 and Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3880)
“Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will keep his face seventy years’ distance away from the Fire because of it.” (Reported by Muslim, 2/808)
“Whoever fasts a day seeking the pleasure of Allaah and then dies [i.e. that is the last thing he does] will enter Paradise.” (Reported by Ahmad, 5/391; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/412)
“In Paradise there is a gate called al-Rayyaan, through which those who fast will enter, and no-one else will enter through it. After they have entered, it will be locked and no-one else will enter it.” (Al-Bukhaari, Fath, no. 1797).
Voluntary fasts will make up for any shortfall in obligatory fasts. Examples of voluntary fasts include ‘Aashooraa’, the Day of ‘Arafaah, al-Ayaam al-Beed (the “White Days”), Mondays and Thursdays, six days of Shawwaal, and increased fasting during the months of Muharram and Sha’baan.
What is meant by al-Ayaam al-Beed is the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “They ask you about the new moons. Say: These are signs to mark fixed periods of time for mankind and for the pilgrimage…” [al-Baqarah 2:189]. So the timing of certain acts of worship and the ‘iddah (waiting period for women who have been divorced or widowed, etc.) are worked out according to the lunar months of the Hijri or Islamic calendar, not the solar months of the Gregorian or Western calendar. The fasts which you have observed according to the solar calendar most likely do not correspond with the lunar calendar, but in any case you will be rewarded, in sha Allaah, for the days that you have fasted, because you have fasted them voluntarily for the sake of Allaah. But if you wish to earn the reward that is specifically for fasting Ayaam al-Beed, which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) urged us to do, you should find out the timings according to the lunar calendar and fast according to it.
We ask Allaah to increase His blessings upon you, to help you adhere to His religion, to give you the strength to do that which will please Him and to increase your reward, for He is the All-Hearing Who answers prayers. Do not forget us in your prayers whilst you are fasting. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
Question:
I am a "New" Muslim (or recently converted) and I thank Allah for guiding me to this truly happiest move I've made in my life. Among all the other ways to worship the Allah, I appreciate very much the issue of fasting. I have truly enjoyed my first Ramadan this year and went through all 30 days with pride and great faith. I'm also very interested in voluntary fasting and besides fasting Thursdays, I''ve been also fasting during the White Days (13,14,15 every months). However, I've realized that I've been fasting 13,14,15 according to Georgian, normal calendar, and not according to an Islamic one! Is what I have done really wrong? Does it annul my fasting? What shall I do in the future? Thank you very much in advance!
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
First of all, congratulations on the blessing of Allaah which you have received, as He has guided you to this religion and caused you to enjoy the sweetness of obedience and worship through fasting, which is one of the greatest forms of worship. Here we will explain in brief the virtues of fasting.
The virtues of fasting are immense, and a number of saheeh ahaadeeth state this, such as the following:
Fasting is something which is just for Allaah, and Allaah will give multiple rewards without measure for it. The hadeeth says: “[Allaah says:] Fasting is Mine and it is I Who give reward for it.” (Al-Bukhaari, Fath, no. 1904)
“There is nothing equivalent to fasting.” (Al-Nisaa’i, 4/165; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/413)
“The prayer (du’aa’) of the fasting person will not be refused.” (Reported by al-Bayhaqi, 3/345; see also al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 1797)
“The one who fasts has two joys: the joy of breaking his fast and, when he meets his Lord, the joy of having fasted.” (Reported by Muslim, 2/807)
Fasting will be an intercession for the slave on the Day of Resurrection, when it will say: “O Lord, I stopped him from eating and drinking during the day, so let me intercede for him.” (Reported by Ahmad, 2/174; al-Bayhaqi classed its isnaad as hasan in al-Mujtama’, 3/181; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/411).
“The smell (coming from the mouth of) the fasting person is better in the sight of Allaah than the scent of musk.” (Muslim, 2/808).
“Fasting is a protection and a strong fortress against the Fire.” (Reported by Ahmad, 2/402; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/411 and Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3880)
“Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will keep his face seventy years’ distance away from the Fire because of it.” (Reported by Muslim, 2/808)
“Whoever fasts a day seeking the pleasure of Allaah and then dies [i.e. that is the last thing he does] will enter Paradise.” (Reported by Ahmad, 5/391; see also Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/412)
“In Paradise there is a gate called al-Rayyaan, through which those who fast will enter, and no-one else will enter through it. After they have entered, it will be locked and no-one else will enter it.” (Al-Bukhaari, Fath, no. 1797).
Voluntary fasts will make up for any shortfall in obligatory fasts. Examples of voluntary fasts include ‘Aashooraa’, the Day of ‘Arafaah, al-Ayaam al-Beed (the “White Days”), Mondays and Thursdays, six days of Shawwaal, and increased fasting during the months of Muharram and Sha’baan.
What is meant by al-Ayaam al-Beed is the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “They ask you about the new moons. Say: These are signs to mark fixed periods of time for mankind and for the pilgrimage…” [al-Baqarah 2:189]. So the timing of certain acts of worship and the ‘iddah (waiting period for women who have been divorced or widowed, etc.) are worked out according to the lunar months of the Hijri or Islamic calendar, not the solar months of the Gregorian or Western calendar. The fasts which you have observed according to the solar calendar most likely do not correspond with the lunar calendar, but in any case you will be rewarded, in sha Allaah, for the days that you have fasted, because you have fasted them voluntarily for the sake of Allaah. But if you wish to earn the reward that is specifically for fasting Ayaam al-Beed, which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) urged us to do, you should find out the timings according to the lunar calendar and fast according to it.
We ask Allaah to increase His blessings upon you, to help you adhere to His religion, to give you the strength to do that which will please Him and to increase your reward, for He is the All-Hearing Who answers prayers. Do not forget us in your prayers whilst you are fasting. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
Islam Q&A
Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
The reason why it is forbidden to single out Friday for fasting
Question:
Is it true that muslims are not supposed to keep nafil fast for one day . They must keep back to back atleast two fasts because jews observe ONE day fast. Honestly , the reason seems absurd to me and I have a little doubt that this two day nafil fast rule. Please, respond to my question even if it sounds silly.
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Singling out a day for observing a naafil fast is permissible, unless it is a Friday or Saturday, or it is the day of ‘Ashoora which is the tenth day of Muharram, in which case it is mustahabb to fast the day before or the day after as well.
As for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, there is nothing wrong with fasting them on their own, rather it is Sunnah to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.
Al-Bukhaari (1985) and Muslim (1144) narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “No one of you should fast on Friday, unless he fasts (a day) before it or after it.”
According to a report narrated by Muslim: “do not single out the day of Friday for fasting, unless that coincides with a fast that one habitually observes.”
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: These ahaadeeth appear to support the view of the majority of the companions of al-Shaafa’i, which is that it is makrooh to single out Friday for fasting unless that happens to coincide with a fast that one habitually observes. If he joins it to a fast on the day before or the day after, or it coincides with a day that he habitually fasts, such as if he vowed to fast on the day that a loved one was healed for the rest of his life, and that happens to be a Friday, then it is not makrooh, because of these ahaadeeth.
The scholars said: The reason why it is forbidden is that Friday is a day of du’aa’, dhikr and worship, such as ghusl, going to the prayer early and waiting for the prayer, listening to the khutbah and reciting a lot of dhikr after it, because Allaah says: “Then when the (Jumu‘ah) Salaah (prayer) is ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allaah (by working), and remember Allaah much” [al-Jumu’ah 62:10]. And there are other acts of worship to be done on this day, so it is mustahabb not to fast then, so that one will have more energy to do these duties and perform them in an energetic manner and be happy to do them and enjoy them without feeling bored or tired. This is like the pilgrim on the day of ‘Arafah in ‘Arafah: the Sunnah is for him not to fast, as stated above.
If it is said: If that was the case, the prohibition would still apply to fasting the day before or the day after, because the reason still applies, the response to that is that he will attain reward for fasting the day before or the day after, which will make up for any shortfall in his duties on Friday that occurs because of his fasting. This is the correct view on the wisdom behind not singling out Friday for fasting.
And it was said that the reason is that there is the fear of going to extremes in venerating Friday, so that become infatuated with it as some people became infatuated about Saturday. But this is a weak view which is contradicted by the fact the Muslims offer Jumu’ah prayer and do other acts which are an expression of veneration of that day.
And it was said that the reason for this prohibition is lest it be thought that it is obligatory. This is a weak view which is contradicted by the fact that it is recommended to fast on Mondays, so no attention should be paid to this unlikely notion. Similarly it is recommended to fast on the day of ‘Arafah and the day of ‘Ashoora’ and so on. The correct view is that which we have stated above, and Allaah knows best. End quote.
As for Saturday, it is makrooh to single it out for fasting. The reason for that is that when a person fasts he becomes weak and he omits some things that he used to do, so he becomes like the Jews who do not work on Saturday. That has been discussed in the answer to question no. (the reason why it is forbidden to fast on Saturdays). [106500]
The reason why it is forbidden to fast on Saturdays
Question:
I have read on your site that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) forbade fasting on Saturdays. What is the reason for this prohibition?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
It is makrooh to single out Saturday for fasting. Some of them gave the reason as being that it is the eid of the Jews. But more important than that is the fact that it is a day on which the Jews refrain from working, and they rest on that day. If the Muslim were to fast on that day, the fast would keep him from working, and he would give up some things that he used to do because of his fast, because fasting makes one thirsty and hungry, so he would be like the Jews in not working on this day. End quote.
Fataawa al-Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem (may Allaah be pleased with him) (4/306).
With regard to ‘Ashoora’, Muslim (1134) narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted on the day of ‘Ashoora’ and enjoined this fast, they said: O Messenger of Allaah, it is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Next year – in sha Allaah – we will fast on the ninth day.” He said: But the next year the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had passed away.
According to another report: “If I live until next year, I shall fast the ninth.”
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: Some of the scholars said: Perhaps the reason why the ninth is to be fasted as well as the tenth is so as not to resemble the Jews by singling out the tenth. The hadeeth indicates this. And it was said that it was so as to be on the safe side and ensure that you are fasting on the tenth. But the first is more likely to be correct. And Allaah knows best. End quote.
It should be clear to you that defining the reason behind it is something concerning which the scholars exercised ijtihaad, and you have seen that al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) regarded as mistaken the views which tried to explain why it is forbidden to single out Fridays for fasting.
Hence the Muslim should submit to the rule of sharee’ah, whether he understands the reason and wisdom behind it or not. He should accept and submit to the words of the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allaah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allaah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed into a plain error”
[al-Ahzaab 33:36]
May Allaah help us and you to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. And Allaah knows best.
Islam Q&A
Question:
Is it true that muslims are not supposed to keep nafil fast for one day . They must keep back to back atleast two fasts because jews observe ONE day fast. Honestly , the reason seems absurd to me and I have a little doubt that this two day nafil fast rule. Please, respond to my question even if it sounds silly.
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
Singling out a day for observing a naafil fast is permissible, unless it is a Friday or Saturday, or it is the day of ‘Ashoora which is the tenth day of Muharram, in which case it is mustahabb to fast the day before or the day after as well.
As for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, there is nothing wrong with fasting them on their own, rather it is Sunnah to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.
Al-Bukhaari (1985) and Muslim (1144) narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “No one of you should fast on Friday, unless he fasts (a day) before it or after it.”
According to a report narrated by Muslim: “do not single out the day of Friday for fasting, unless that coincides with a fast that one habitually observes.”
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: These ahaadeeth appear to support the view of the majority of the companions of al-Shaafa’i, which is that it is makrooh to single out Friday for fasting unless that happens to coincide with a fast that one habitually observes. If he joins it to a fast on the day before or the day after, or it coincides with a day that he habitually fasts, such as if he vowed to fast on the day that a loved one was healed for the rest of his life, and that happens to be a Friday, then it is not makrooh, because of these ahaadeeth.
The scholars said: The reason why it is forbidden is that Friday is a day of du’aa’, dhikr and worship, such as ghusl, going to the prayer early and waiting for the prayer, listening to the khutbah and reciting a lot of dhikr after it, because Allaah says: “Then when the (Jumu‘ah) Salaah (prayer) is ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allaah (by working), and remember Allaah much” [al-Jumu’ah 62:10]. And there are other acts of worship to be done on this day, so it is mustahabb not to fast then, so that one will have more energy to do these duties and perform them in an energetic manner and be happy to do them and enjoy them without feeling bored or tired. This is like the pilgrim on the day of ‘Arafah in ‘Arafah: the Sunnah is for him not to fast, as stated above.
If it is said: If that was the case, the prohibition would still apply to fasting the day before or the day after, because the reason still applies, the response to that is that he will attain reward for fasting the day before or the day after, which will make up for any shortfall in his duties on Friday that occurs because of his fasting. This is the correct view on the wisdom behind not singling out Friday for fasting.
And it was said that the reason is that there is the fear of going to extremes in venerating Friday, so that become infatuated with it as some people became infatuated about Saturday. But this is a weak view which is contradicted by the fact the Muslims offer Jumu’ah prayer and do other acts which are an expression of veneration of that day.
And it was said that the reason for this prohibition is lest it be thought that it is obligatory. This is a weak view which is contradicted by the fact that it is recommended to fast on Mondays, so no attention should be paid to this unlikely notion. Similarly it is recommended to fast on the day of ‘Arafah and the day of ‘Ashoora’ and so on. The correct view is that which we have stated above, and Allaah knows best. End quote.
As for Saturday, it is makrooh to single it out for fasting. The reason for that is that when a person fasts he becomes weak and he omits some things that he used to do, so he becomes like the Jews who do not work on Saturday. That has been discussed in the answer to question no. (the reason why it is forbidden to fast on Saturdays). [106500]
The reason why it is forbidden to fast on Saturdays
Question:
I have read on your site that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) forbade fasting on Saturdays. What is the reason for this prohibition?
Answer:
Praise be to Allaah.
It is makrooh to single out Saturday for fasting. Some of them gave the reason as being that it is the eid of the Jews. But more important than that is the fact that it is a day on which the Jews refrain from working, and they rest on that day. If the Muslim were to fast on that day, the fast would keep him from working, and he would give up some things that he used to do because of his fast, because fasting makes one thirsty and hungry, so he would be like the Jews in not working on this day. End quote.
Fataawa al-Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem (may Allaah be pleased with him) (4/306).
With regard to ‘Ashoora’, Muslim (1134) narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted on the day of ‘Ashoora’ and enjoined this fast, they said: O Messenger of Allaah, it is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Next year – in sha Allaah – we will fast on the ninth day.” He said: But the next year the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had passed away.
According to another report: “If I live until next year, I shall fast the ninth.”
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: Some of the scholars said: Perhaps the reason why the ninth is to be fasted as well as the tenth is so as not to resemble the Jews by singling out the tenth. The hadeeth indicates this. And it was said that it was so as to be on the safe side and ensure that you are fasting on the tenth. But the first is more likely to be correct. And Allaah knows best. End quote.
It should be clear to you that defining the reason behind it is something concerning which the scholars exercised ijtihaad, and you have seen that al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) regarded as mistaken the views which tried to explain why it is forbidden to single out Fridays for fasting.
Hence the Muslim should submit to the rule of sharee’ah, whether he understands the reason and wisdom behind it or not. He should accept and submit to the words of the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allaah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allaah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed into a plain error”
[al-Ahzaab 33:36]
May Allaah help us and you to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. And Allaah knows best.
Islam Q&A