Imaam Ibn Qudaamah Al-Maqdisi rahimahullaah said:
Know verily that, fasting has a specific quality that is special and particular to it. In that, it is an Ibaadah which is attributed to Allah.
It is reported from Abu Hurairah radiyallaahu anhu who said The Messenger salallaahu alayhi wasallam said:
” Allah said; “All the deeds of Adam’s sons are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.”
Transmitted and recorded by Imaam Bukhaari in his ‘Sahih‘#1904 and Imaam Muslim in his ‘Sahih‘#1151.
In addition, fasting has been given such consideration and status due to the following reasons:
♦ It is a hidden act of worship that no one can knows except Allah and it is also far from showing off.
♦ It overcomes the enemy of Allah. This is because it breaks desires through the abstinence of eating and drinking.
The Sunan of fasting.
The following are some Sunan that one is recommended to carryout during fasting:
• To take a predawn meal(I.e sahur). But the meal should be taken close to fajr time.
• To hasten to break fasting as soon as the sun set, and it is recommended to break fasting with dates.
• It is encouraged for one to be more generous and to be doing righteous deeds during Ramadan.
• To hasten to give out charity to the poor people.
• To spend time in studying and reciting the Qur’an.
• It is recommended to observe ‘Itikaf particularly in the last ten days of Ramadan.
In this context, it is reported from Aisha radiyallaahu anha who said:
” with the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Messenger salallaahu alayhi wasallam used to tighten his waist belt and used to pray all the night and used to keep his family awake for the prayers.
Transmitted and recorded by Imaam Bukhaari in his ‘Sahih‘#2024 and Imaam Muslim in his ‘Sahih‘#1174.
Allaahu A’alam
Baarakallaahu feekum
