Introduction to the Rulings of Fasting
28/02/2024| IslamWeb
Author: IslamWeb
It is reported in an authentic hadith that the Prophet (
) said: “Whoever Allah intends good for, He gives him understanding of the religion” [Al-Bukhari & Muslim]. Comprehending the rulings of Islam is among the most incumbent duties and the most emphasized requirements, especially concerning the obligations related to the acts of worship, such as Prayer, Zakat, and the other pillars of Islam.
Fasting is one of the obligations of our religion, legislated by Allah the Almighty for this nation as He did with the nations before us. Allah, the Exalted, states: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous” [Quran 2:183].
Before delving into the discussion of the rulings of fasting, it is essential to address some introductory concepts regarding the definition of fasting as well as its obligatory nature, stages of legislation, and levels.
Definition of Fasting:
Linguistically, in Arabic, Sawm (fasting) means withholding or refraining completely from something. For example, one might say Sama ‘an Al-Kalam (Lit. He fasted from speaking), meaning someone refrained from speaking to anyone. This usage is reflected in the Quran when Maryam (Mary), peace be upon her, said: “Indeed, I have vowed to the Most Merciful abstention, so I will not speak today to [any] man” [Quran 19:26].
Technically, fasting entails abstaining from eating, drinking, and all other activities that break the fast, from the true dawn until sunset, with a specific intention.
Obligatory Nature of Fasting:
The obligation of fasting during the month of Ramadan is established through the Quran, Sunnah, and the consensus of the Muslim nation (Ummah). In the Quran, Allah says: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you” [Quran 2:183].
In the Sunnah, the Prophet () said: “Islam is built upon five pillars...” and among them he mentioned “...fasting [the month of] Ramadan” [Al-Bukhari & Muslim]. Moreover, the Muslim nation has unanimously agreed upon the obligation of fasting during Ramadan.
Based on this, scholars have upheld that fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for every sane, adult, physically capable Muslim who is free from any legal impediments.
Stages of the Legislation of Fasting:
The obligation of fasting during Ramadan underwent four stages:
First Stage: Fasting on the Day of Ashuraa’ (10th of Muharram) was initially obligatory. The Prophet () commanded fasting on this day before the obligation of fasting in the month of Ramadan was established. It is reported in Al-Bukhari and Muslim that the Prophet () fasted on the Day of Ashuraa’ and commanded his followers to do so. However, when fasting during Ramadan became obligatory, fasting on Ashuraa’ was no longer mandatory; it has become a recommended practice (Sunnah) for those who wish to observe it.
Second Stage: The option was given between fasting during the month of Ramadan or feeding poor persons as an expiation. Allah the Almighty says: “And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] - a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]” [Quran 2:184]
Third Stage: The obligation of fasting during Ramadan was imposed on every sane, adult, and physically capable Muslim. If the sun had set, a fasting person could eat and drink until they fell asleep. However, when they fell asleep, they were prohibited from eating, drinking, and engaging in marital relations until the next night. Recognizing the hardship associated with fasting in this manner, concessions were made to lighten the burden for Muslims. This stage is illustrated in a narration in Sahih al-Bukhari by Al-Baraa' (may Allah be pleased with him), who reported: “It was the custom among the companions of Muhammad () that if any of them was fasting and the food was presented (for breaking his fast), but he slept before eating, he would not eat that night and the following day till sunset. Qais Ibn Sermah Al-Ansari was fasting and came to his wife at the time of Iftar (breaking one's fast) and asked her whether she had anything to eat. She replied, ‘No, but I would go and bring some for you.’ He used to do hard work during the day, so he was overwhelmed by drowsiness and slept. When his wife came and saw him, she said, ‘disappointment for you!’ When it was midday on the following day, he fainted and the Prophet () was informed about the whole matter and the following verses were revealed: “It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]” [Quran 2:187]. So, they were overjoyed by it. And then Allah also revealed: “And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]” [Quran 2:187].
The matter settled in the Fourth Stage: the obligation of fasting during this noble month upon every legally accountable person who is able to fast was decreed. Allah the Almighty says: “So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it” [Quran 2:185].
Fasting is not limited to one degree or one level; instead, it encompasses obligatory, forbidden, recommended, and disliked forms. The obligatory fasts include fasting in Ramadan and fasting as fulfillment of vows. Fasting on the two ‘Eids is forbidden. Recommended fasts include fasting six days of Shawwal, fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, fasting three days of each month, and fasting every other day. Fasting on Fridays alone is disliked. The Sunnah of the Prophet () provided comprehensive details and thorough clarification on these categories of fasting.