Voluntary Fast

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The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has exhorted us to fast during certain days: six days of Shawwal, the first ten days of the month of Dhul-Hijjah, especially the day of `Arafah for those who are not performing Hajj, fasting Mondays and Thursdays, fasting three days (the 13th, 14th, and 15th) of every month.
As for fasting Mondays and Thursdays, Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to fast on Monday and Thursday. On being asked about that the Prophet said: "Deeds are presented on every Monday and Thursday. Allah forgives every Muslim or every believer, except for those who are forsaking each other. He says [about them]: 'Leave them.'" (Reported by Ahmad with authentic chain of narrators).

As for fasting the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each month, Abu Dharr Al-Ghafari reported: "The Messenger of Allah ordered us to fast for three days of every month - that is, on the days of the full moon (the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the lunar month). And he said: 'It is like fasting the whole year.'" (Reported by An-Nasa'i) It goes without saying that it is forbidden to fast on the day of `Eidul-Fitr and `Eidul-Adha. Also, fasting on the three days following `Eidul-Adha – days of Tashriq – is forbidden. Moreover, it is reprehensible – Makruh – to single out Saturday or Friday with fasting, except if it is the Day of `Arafah or `Ashura’.
Also, it is disliked to fast a day or two days prior to Ramadan, for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, ‘Don’t fast a day or two days prior to Ramadan…’ (Reported by Muslim) The 30th day of Sha`ban is known as the day of Shakk (doubt), because people mostly be in doubt whether it is Sha`ban or Ramadan. It is reported that whoever fasts on the day of Shakk, disobeys Abu Al-Qasim (the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him).

Who Pays Ransom for the Missed Fast-days
The patient, whose illness is chronic, the aged, and the woman who is constantly either pregnant or suckling are allowed to break the fast and pay a ransom (Fidyah) in return for the missed fast-days. The ransom is to feed a poor person for each missed day of fast. According to some jurists, such as Abu Hanifah, they may pay the worth of a meal to the poor, the weak or the needy.

About Author: Ali Selim

Parent page: General Topics