RAMADHAAN

As observed by the Prophet

Sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam

A Summarized version of the book Sifah Saum an-Nabee

By,
Shaikh Saleem al-Hilaalee
& Shaikh ‘Alee Hasan al-Halabee

Summarized by,
Shaikh Taariq Saudagar Madani

Translated from Urdu and Published by,

Centre for Islamic Studies (CIS), Bangalore

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 The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said:

“Whoever fasts the month of Ramadhaan

due to Eemaan (correct belief) and hoping
for reward (from Allaah) will have his
In the name of Allaah, the Entirely previous sins forgiven.”1
Merciful, the Especially Merciful

1
Bukhaaree # 1951

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CONTENTS Actions which nullify the fast 60
Atonement (al-qadaa)-making up
Publishers’ note 6 for the missed fast 64
Introduction 8 Expiation (al-Kaffaarah) 68
Definition of Saum (fasting) 10 Recompense (al-Fidyah) 69
Obligation of fasting 11 Lailatul-qadr (the night of decree) 70
Excellence of fasting Taraaweeh prayers 75
I. Virtues of fasting in general 12 The Witr prayer 80
II. Virtues of fasting in Ramadhaan 14 Generosity in Ramadhaan 86
Warning against failing to fast Recitation of the Qur’aan 87
in Ramadhaan 17 Zakaatul Fitr 88
At the approach of Ramadhaan 19 Some weak Ahaadeeth quoted often
The Intention 24 in the month of Ramadhaan 93
The time for beginning and ending the Appendix 1: Voluntary fasts 95
fast 26 Appendix 2 - the ‘Eid prayer 102
Suhoor – the pre-dawn meal 30
Actions that are to be avoided while
fasting 35
Actions that are permitted while fasting 38
Those exempted from fasting 45
Breaking the fast (Iftaar) 52

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PUBLISHERS’ NOTE had to rely on poorly researched books full
of unauthentic Ahaadeeth, and innovated
All Praise is for Allaah, the Lord of the practices. We hope that this book helps the
Worlds and may the Peace and Security of reader to perfect his fast so that it may be
Allaah be upon the Noble Prophet sallallaahu acceptable to Allaah and of benefit to us on
‘alaihi wa sallam, his family and upon all of his the Day of Resurrection.
companions.
Finally, if you find any errors in the book
Alhamdulillaah, before you is the English please inform us so that we may correct
translation of a Summarized version of the them in future editions.
Arabic book Sifah Sawm an-Nabee by two
of the foremost students of Shaikh al- Centre for Islamic Studies (CIS)
Albaanee rahimahullaah. It will Insha’Allah
serve as a beneficial book for all those who
do not give precedence to anyone above
Allaah and His Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa
sallam. Books of this nature are long overdue Note: All references refer to Arabic sources
in the English language, as English unless otherwise stated. All the Ahaadeeth
speaking Muslims have been deprived of quoted have been verified to be authentic
authentic books based on the methodology by the authors. All footnotes are by the
of the Pious Predecessors. Instead they have Publisher.

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INTRODUCTION the Face of Allaah2, and how that reward
increases or decreases depending on its
Verily all praises are for Allaah, we praise closeness to the Sunnah of the Messenger
Him, we seek His aid and ask for His sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. As was indicated by
forgiveness, and we seek Allaah’s refuge the best of the children of Adam sallallaahu
from the evils of ourselves and from our ‘alaihi wa sallam who said,
evil actions. Whomsoever Allaah guides
then there is none to misguide him, and “Perhaps a person fasting will receive
whomsoever Allaah misguides then there is nothing from his fasting except hunger
none to guide him. I testify that none has and thirst.”3
the right to be worshipped but Allaah alone,
having no partner, and I testify that Therefore, we must know the
Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam is His characteristics of the Prophet’s fast; its
slave and His Messenger. To proceed, obligatory duties, its manners and related
supplications – and then put that into
O brother, may Allaah unite us upon love of practice (in order to achieve the desired
Him and upon following the Sunnah of His benefits of fasting).
Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. The status
of fasting and its place in Islam will
2
become clear to us and also the great This expression means seeking to see Allaah on the
reward awaiting the one who fasts seeking Day of Judgement. cf. Al-Qur’aan 75:22-3 and 76:9
3
Ibn Maajah # 1/539

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DEFINITION OF SAUM (FASTING) OBLIGATION OF FASTING

The literal meaning of Saum is ‘to abstain Fasting is the 3rd most important pillar of
from something’ and according to the Islam. It was made obligatory in the 2nd
Shariah4 it is ‘that a Muslim abstains from year of Hijrah. Allaah subhaanahoo wa ta’aala
eating, drinking, sexual acts and all evil said,
actions with the intention of pleasing
Allaah, from True Dawn to Sunset. ‘The month of Ramadhaan5 in which was
revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for
mankind and clear proofs for the guidance
and the criterion (between right and
wrong). So whoever of you sights (the
crescent on the first night of) the month
(of Ramadhaan i.e. is present at his
home), he must observe Saum (fasts) that
month....’6

5
The 9th month of the Islamic Calendar
4 6
The Islamic Law Al-Qur’aan 2:185

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EXCELLENCE OF FASTING 6. Fasting intercedes for a person on the
Day of Judgement.12
I. VIRTUES OF FASTING IN GENERAL 7. Fasting is an expiation for various sins.13
8. A gate in paradise ‘Ar-Rayyaan’ is
1. Fasting acts like a shield from desires in exclusively for those who fast.14
this world and from the Hell-fire in the
Hereafter.7
2. Fasting enters a person to paradise.8
3. The people who fast are rewarded with
an immense reward.9
4. For the fasting person there are two times
of joy; when he breaks his fast and when he
meets his Lord (in the Hereafter).10
5. The smell coming from the mouth of the
fasting person is better with Allaah than the
smell of musk.11

7
Bukhaaree # 1904, Ahmed # 396, 397
8
Ibn Hibbaan # 3425
9 12
Bukhaaree # 1904 Ahmed # 6626
10 13
Bukhaaree # 1904 Al-Qur’aan 2:196, 4:92, 5:89
11 14
Bukhaaree # 1904 Bukhaaree # 1896

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II. VIRTUES OF FASTING IN RAMADHAAN The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

Along-with these, (i.e. the above-mentioned “There are in the month of Ramadhaan in
virtues), fasting in Ramadhaan has every day and night those to whom Allaah
additional excellence and virtues like, grants freedom from the fire, and there is
for every Muslim a supplication which he
1. Forgiveness of Sins can make and will be granted.”16

It has been related on the authority of Abu 3. A person will be amongst the
Hurairah radhiallaahu ‘anhu that the Prophet Siddeeqeen (truthful followers of the
sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, prophets) and Shuhadaa’ (martyrs)

“Whoever fasts the month of Ramadhaan ‘Amr bin Murrah al-Juhanee radhiallaahu ‘anhu
due to Eemaan (correct belief) and hoping said, a man came to the Prophet sallallaahu
for reward (from Allaah) will have his ‘alaihi wa sallam and said,
previous sins forgiven.”15
“O Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa
2. Supplications answered and Freedom sallam, what if I testify that none has the
from the Hell-fire right to be worshipped but Allaah and that

15 16
Bukhaaree # 1901 Ahmed # 4/254

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you are the Messenger of Allaah, and I WARNING AGAINST FAILING TO
observe the five daily prayers, and I pay FAST IN RAMADHAAN
the Zakaah, and I fast and stand in prayer
in Ramadhaan, then amongst whom shall Abu Umaamah al-Baahilee radhiallaahu ‘anhu
I be?” He said, “Amongst the Siddeeqeen said, I heard Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu
and the Shuhadaa.”17 ‘alaihi wa sallam say,

“Whilst I was sleeping two men came to

me and took hold of my arms and brought
me to a steep mountain and said: ‘climb’,
so I said: ‘I am not able to.’ So they said:
‘We will make it easy for you.’ So I
climbed until I came to the summit of the
mountain where I heard terrible cries, so I
said: ‘what are these cries?’ They said:
‘That is the howling of the people of the
fire.’ Then they took me further on until I
came to a people who were strung up by
their hamstrings, with their jawbones torn
and flowing with blood, so I said: ‘who are
17 these.’ He said: ‘Those who break their
Ibn Hibbaan # 19 of Az-Zawaaid

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fast before the time at which they may do AT THE APPROACH OF
so.’”18 19 RAMADHAAN

(I.e. in spite of knowing the obligation of Counting the days of Sha’baan20

fasting in Ramadhaan they would not keep
it). The Muslim Ummah (nation) should count
the days from the beginning of Sha’baan in
preparation for Ramadhaan, since any
month will either be of twenty nine or thirty
days. So if the new moon is seen, then one
must fast and if that is not possible due to
clouds, then thirty days of Sha’baan should
be completed.

The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

18
Ibn Hibbaan # 1800
“Fast when it (the moon) is seen and cease
19
Another Hadeeth worth noting is that the Prophet fasting when it is seen, so if it is concealed
sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, “Let his nose be
smeared in dust ...the one who gets the month of
20
Ramadhaan and it comes to an end without him It is the 8th month of the Islamic Calendar and
being forgiven in it...” Tirmidhee # 927 comes before Ramadhaan

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by clouds, then complete thirty days of every alternate day) can fast during these
Sha’baan.”21 days as well (but not anyone else).
‘Ammaar radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,
Forbiddance of fasting on the day of
Doubt “Whoever fasts the day about which there
is doubt has disobeyed Abul-Qaasim23
24
From Abu Hurairah radhiallaahu ‘anhu who said, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam.”
Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
said, The day of doubt is the 30th day of
Sha’baan while the moon has not been
“Do not pre-empt Ramadhaan by fasting a sighted on the 29th.
day or two before it, except for a man
fasting his usual fast – then let him Sighting the Moon
fast.”22
The beginning and ending of Ramadhaan
Which means that a person who regularly depends on sighting the crescent (new
fasts on Monday, Thursday or fasts in the moon) or by completing 30 days of that
manner of Daawood ‘alaihissalaam (fasting month.
23
The Kunya of Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu
21
Bukhaaree # 1959 ‘alaihi wa sallam
22 24
Muslim # 573 Abu Daawood # 2334

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The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, The person who gives the witness should be
a Muslim who is pious, just and has a good
“Fast when it is seen, and cease fasting vision.
when it is seen and perform the rites of
Hajj based upon that and if it is hidden by Note: One of the benefits that can be
clouds then complete thirty (days), and if derived from the above-mentioned
two witnesses testify, then fast and cease Ahaadeeth is that in the Shariah28, a
27

fasting.”25 month does not have 31 days.

Even the witness of a single person who has

seen the moon is acceptable.

Ibn ‘Umar radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,

“The people looked out for the new moon,

so I informed the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa
sallam that I had seen it, so he fasted and
ordered the people to fast.”26

25 27
Nasaaee # 2118 Plural of Hadeeth
26 28
Abu Daawood # 2342 The Islamic Law

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THE INTENTION From this we know that it is not obligatory
to intend in the night for supererogatory
For the obligatory fast, it is obligatory upon fasts.
every Muslim to intend to fast in the night
itself before the Fajr prayer. The Prophet Note: The place for the intention is the
sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, heart, and to pronounce this upon the
tongue or reading the Du’aa ‘Allaahumma
“He who does not resolve to fast before it asoomu ghadan-laka faghfirlee maa
is Fajr, there is no fast for him.”29 qaddamtu wa maa akhhartu’ is not
established from the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa
The necessity of having the intention before sallam and therefore is an innovation and a
the Fajr itself is particular to obligatory misguidance.
fasts (and not supererogatory fasts). This is
since the Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
used to come to Aa’ishah radhiallaahu ‘anhaa at
times other than Ramadhaan and say,

“Do you have any food? If not, then I am

fasting.”30

29 30
Abu Daawood # 2454 Muslim # 1154

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THE TIME FOR BEGINNING AND nightfall.”32
ENDING THE FAST
The fixed timing of the fast, till the day of
The Most Wise Legislator has made the resurrection, is from true dawn until sunset.
timing of the fast from true dawn to sunset. Since every Muslim is not able to discern
At other times, it is permissible to eat, drink these timings, the Adhaan is used as a
and have sexual relations with one’s indication to inform the people about the
spouse. Allaah the Most High said, beginning and the end of the timings of the
fast. It should be noted however that the
“It is lawful for you to have sexual Adhaan, in and of itself, does not represent
relations with your wives on the night of the prescribed time limits. Al-Haafidh Ibn
the fasts.”31 Hajr rahimahullaah complaining about his time
i.e. the 8th century A.H said,
And He also said,
“One of the new things that the people
“…And eat and drink until the white nowadays have invented is that they give
thread (light) of dawn appears to you the Adhaan about 20 minutes before the
distinct from the black thread (darkness of actual time of the true dawn begins giving it
night ) , then complete your fast till the the name of precaution which in fact is an

31 32
Al-Qur’aan 2:187 Al-Qur’aan 2:187

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open misguidance and a clear innovation. Note: 1. The rulings of fasting are
And it is this same precautionary attitude connected to the seeing with the naked eye.
that has caused them to wait and give the One should not burden himself with
Adhaan a few minutes after the sunset. In seeking out the moon by means of newly
this way they delay breaking the fast and invented astronomical devices or by
take Suhoor33 early which is in clear timetables provided by the people of
contradiction to the Sunnah34 and it is for astronomy. This has caused the people to
this reason that there is little good and go farther away from the Sunnah of Prophet
much evil found in the people.”35 36 Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam.

This was the condition of the people 6 2. It is found that the administrators of
centuries ago. As for our times, then many Masjids depend on calendars based
Allaah’s refuge is sought. on astronomical calculations which are
decades old and due to which they end up
making the Suhoor early and delay the
33 breaking of the fast which is in
Pre-dawn meal
34
Prophet’s way
contradiction to the Prophet’s Sunnah. The
35
This is due to their deliberate opposition to the correct way always is to deduce these
command of the Prophet ‘alaihissalaam, “The timings based upon the beginning of Fajr
people will not cease to be upon good as long as and sunset.
they hasten in breaking the fast.” Muslim # 1093
36
Fathul-Baaree # 4/199

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SUHOOR – THE PRE-DAWN MEAL sallam said,

It’s Wisdom “I entered upon the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi

wa sallam and he was taking the Suhoor and

“The distinction between our fasting and he said: ‘It is a blessing which Allaah has
the fasting of the People of the Book is the given to you, so do not leave it.’”39
taking of the Suhoor.”37
And it is clear that the Suhoor is a blessing
It’s Excellence since it is an act that is in compliance with
the Sunnah. Perhaps the greatest blessing
It is blessed. Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu
for those who take the Suhoor is that
‘alaihi wa sallam said,
Allaah, the Most High, covers them with
His forgiveness and sends His mercy upon
“Blessing is in three: the Jamaa’ah, them. Abu Sa’eed al-Khudree radhiallaahu ‘anhu
Thareed (a broth of crumbled bread and said that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
meat) and the Suhoor.”38 said,

A companion of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa “The Suhoor is a meal of blessings, so do

not leave it, even if one of you just takes a
(gulp) of water, since Allaah sends mercy
37
Muslim # 1099
38 39
Tabraanee # 9147 Nasaaee # 2164

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and His angels seek forgiveness for those beginning the Iftaar and latest in taking
who take the Suhoor.”40 the Suhoor.42

Delaying the Suhoor Using dates for Suhoor

It is recommended to delay the Suhoor until The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,
just before Fajr.
“How excellent are dates as the believer’s
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, Suhoor.”43

“Three things are from the manners of the The Ruling of Suhoor
Prophets: hastening in break the fast,
delaying the Suhoor, and placing the right Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
arm upon the left in prayer.”41 gave an emphatic order for one who is
fasting that he should take Suhoor. He said,
‘Amr bin Maimoon al-Awdee said, “The
companions of Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa “Whoever wishes to fast then let him take
sallam were the earliest of people in something as Suhoor.”44
42
Musannaf Abdur-Razaaq # 7591
40 43
Ahmed # 3/12 Abu Daawood # 2345
41 44
Majmu’ az-Zawaaid # 2/105 Ahmed # 3/367

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He sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam also said, ACTIONS THAT ARE TO BE
AVOIDED WHILE FASTING
“The distinction between our fasting and
the fasting of the People of the Book is the Know that the fasting person is the one
taking of the Suhoor.”45 whose limbs withhold from sins, his tongue
from lies, foul speech and falsehood, his
He sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam forbade us from stomach from food and drink, and his
leaving the Suhoor, saying, private parts from sexual intercourse.

“…Do not leave it (i.e. the Suhoor), even So if he speaks he says only that which
if one of you just takes a gulp of water.”46 should not harm his fast, and if he acts he
does actions which will not spoil his fast –
Hence, taking Suhoor is Sunnah so his speech is good and his actions
Muakkadah (highly emphasized Sunnah) & righteous.
almost reaches the level of Waajib
(obligatory). There are two things, which being
prohibited in normal times, take a more
serious prohibition during fasting. They are,

45
1. Falsehood or giving false witness
Muslim # 1099
46
Abu Ya’laa # 3340

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The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam for one who
commits these acts. He said,
“Whoever does not abandon falsehood in
word and action (while fasting), Allaah “Perhaps a person fasting will receive
the Mighty and Majestic has no need that nothing from his fasting except hunger
he should leave his food and drink.”47 and thirst.”49

2. Ignorant and indecent speech The reason for this is that one who does
these things does not fulfill the purpose of
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, fasting which Allaah has made obligatory
on us.
“Fasting is not (merely abstaining) from
eating and drinking, rather it is
(abstaining) from ignorant and indecent
speech, so if anyone abuses or behaves
ignorantly with you, then say: ‘I am
fasting, I am fasting.’”48

A severe warning has come from the

47
Bukhaaree # 1903
48 49
Bukhaaree # 1904 Ibn Maajah # 1690

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ACTIONS THAT ARE PERMITTED “If it were not that I would be putting my
WHILE FASTING nation to hardship I would have ordered
them to use the Siwaak along with every
1. That the fasting person can begin Wudhoo’.”52
50
fasting whilst in the state of Janaabah
The Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam did not
Aa’ishah and Umm-e-Salamah, radhiallaahu exclude the fasting person from this. So the
‘anhumaa said, fasting person can use the Siwaak anytime
in the morning or evening, whether it is
“That sometimes the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi fresh or dry.
wa sallam was in a state of Janaabah from
his wives and Fajr came upon him, then 3. Washing the mouth and nose
he would bathe and fast.”51
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam used to
2. Use of the Tooth-Stick (Miswaak) wash his mouth and nose while fasting, but
he prevented the fasting person from doing
He sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, it strongly. He sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

“… and breathe water into your nose

50
Requiring a bath due to sexual intercourse or
emission of semen
51 52
Bukhaaree # 1925 Muslim # 252

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strongly unless you are fasting.”53 Ibn ‘Abbaas radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,

4. Blood testing54 and injections which do “There is no harm for a person to taste
not provide nourishment vinegar or anything whilst fasting as long
as it does not enter his throat.”57
These things do not nullify the fast.55
58
7. Using Kuhl or medicine which enters
5. Cupping/blood-letting for medical the eyes
purposes
These are things which do not break the fast
Ibn ‘Abbaas radhiallaahu ‘anhu said, whether or not they produce a taste in the
throat. Imaam al-Bukhaaree says in his
“The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam was Saheeh59,
cupped while fasting.”56
“Anas bin Maalik radhiallaahu ‘anhu, Hasan
6. Tasting Food etc. Basree and Ibraaheem Nakh’ee
rahimahumullaah did not see any harm in the
53
Tirmidhee # 788
54 57
This also includes blood donation if it does not Bukhaaree in mu’allaq form , Baihaqee # 4/261
58
weaken a person A black substance applied to the rims of the
55
Majmu’ Fataawaa Ibn Baaz # 15/258 eyelids. It is known as Surma in Urdu.
56 59
Bukhaaree # 1938 Referring here to Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree

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use of Kuhl for the fasting person.”60 Hasan radhiallaahu ‘anhu said: There is no
harm in rinsing the mouth and cooling
8. Pouring cold water over the head or one’s body with cold water when
taking a bath fasting.”63

“The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam used to 9. Embracing and kissing one’s wife
pour water over his head whilst fasting
due to thirst or the heat.”61 Aa’ishah radhiallaahu ‘anhaa said,

Imaam Bukhaaree rahimahullaah brought a “Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam

chapter in his Saheeh, used to kiss and embrace (his wives) while
he was fasting, and he had more power to
“Chapter: A fasting person’s taking a control his desires than any of you.”64
bath: And Ibn ‘Umar radhiallaahu ‘anhumaa
soaked a garment in water and put it over However, this is something disapproved of
himself whilst he was fasting, and Imam for younger men in particular, not for old
Ash-Sha’bee rahimahullaah62 entered the bath- men, since ‘Abdullaah Ibn ‘Amr Ibn al-
house whilst he was fasting, and Imaam ‘Aas radhiallaahu ‘anhu reports,
60
Bukhaaree # 451
61 63
Abu Daawood # 2365 Bukhaaree - See chap. preceding Hadeeth # 1930
62 64
May Allaah’s mercy be on him Bukhaaree # 1927

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“We were with the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa THOSE EXEMPTED FROM FASTING
sallam when a youth came and said, ‘May I
kiss whilst I am fasting? He said: ‘No.’ 1. The Traveller
Then an old man came and said, ‘May I
kiss whilst I am fasting?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ Allaah the Almighty said,
So we began looking at one another, so
Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam “And whoever is ill or on a journey, the
said, ‘The old man is able to control same number [of days which one did not
himself.’”65 observe Saum (fasts) must be made up]
from other days.”66

From this aayah (verse) we know that it is

permissible for the traveller to leave the
fast.

Anas Ibn Maalik radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,

“I travelled along with Allaah’s

Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam in

65 66
Ahmed # 2/581 Al-Qur’aan 2:185

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Ramadhaan, and the fasting person would “And (the Companions of Prophet
not criticize the one not fasting, nor the Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) used to
one not fasting criticize the fasting hold that one who had the strength and
person.”67 fasted – then that was good, and that he
who was weak and refrained from fasting
These Ahaadeeth68 shows that one has a - then that was good.”70
choice to either fast while travelling or
leave the fast. Thus, if fasting on a journey produces
hardship for the believer, then it is not from
However, it is better that one leaves it due righteousness, rather it is better and more
to the Hadeeth where the Prophet sallallaahu beloved to Allaah that he breaks his fast.
‘alaihi wa sallam said,
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,
“Indeed Allaah loves to give allowances,
just as He loves to give His obligations.”69 “It is not righteousness that you fast on a
journey.”71
Abu Sa’eed al-Khudree radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,
And this ease that has been granted to the
67
Bukhaaree # 1947
68 70
Plural of Hadeeth Tirmidhee # 713
69 71
Ibn Hibbaan # 354 Bukhaaree # 1946

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traveller is applicable till the Day of 3. Menstruating women and women
Judgment irrespective of how comfortable having post-natal bleeding
one’s journey is nowadays. The person who
criticizes the one who leaves the fast while Menstruating women and women having
on journey is in fact criticizing the post-natal bleeding are not allowed to fast
allowance given by Allaah Himself. and it is obligatory to recompense by
making up for the days later on.72
2. The Ill
4. The frail elderly man and woman
Allaah has allowed the sick person to
refrain from fasting as a mercy from Him, Ibn ‘Abbaas radhiallaahu ‘anhumaa recited the
and a convenience. The illness which verse,
allows a person to break his fast is that
which will, if he fasts, cause harm to him, “And as for those who can fast (with
increase in severity, or be prolonged by it – difficulty) they have (a choice either to fast
and Allaah knows best. See Al-Qur’aan or) to feed a poor person (for every
2:185. day).”73and said, “It is the old man who is
unable to fast so he refrains from fasting
The missed fasts should be made up later.
72
Muslim # 79, 80
73
Al-Qur’aan 2:185

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and instead feeds a poor person with half to recompense for the missed fast. Once Ibn
a Saa’74 of wheat.”75 ‘Umar’s wife radhiallaahu ‘anhumaa asked him
about this, so he replied,
Anas Ibn Maalik radhiallaahu ‘anhu became too
weak one particular year, so he prepared a ‘You leave the fast, and for every day
large dish of Thareed76 and invited thirty missed feed one poor person and there is
poor people who came and ate their fill.77 no recompense due on you.’78

5. The pregnant and the breast-feeding

woman

If such women fear for their or their child’s

life and health, then they can leave the fast
and for every missed fast, they should feed
one poor person and they are not required

74
A Saa’ is a measure equal to four times the
quantity held by the two outstretched hands which is
equivalent to 2 kg 40 gm
75
Bukhaaree # 4505
76
A broth of crumbled meat and bread
77 78
Daaraqutnee # 2/207 Daaraqutnee # 1/207

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BREAKING THE FAST (IFTAAR) wa sallam, soon after the sunset, said to one
of his companions, ‘Come on, get down
The Time of Iftaar and present the Iftaar.’ The companion
said, ‘O Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi
The time for Iftaar is as soon as the sun wa sallam, let the daylight end!’ Then he

sets. sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said again, ‘Come on,

get down and bring the Iftaar.’ Once
Hastening to break the fast again the companion said, ‘daytime is not
yet over!’ Yet again the Prophet sallallaahu
‘alaihi wa sallam said, ‘Bring the Iftaar.’ Then
Hastening in breaking the fast was one of
the most beloved things to Allaah’s he brought the Iftaar before him and the
Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam and it was Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam did his Iftaar.
from his practice that he would instruct He then pointed in the direction of the
someone to go up to a high place and as West and said, ‘When you see that the
soon as he announced that the sun had set, night has started from here, the fasting
he sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam would break his person should do his Iftaar.’”80
fast.79
Excellence of hastening in breaking the
“Once Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alaihi
fast

79 80
Ibn Khuzaimah # 2061 Muslim # 1151

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Hastening in Iftaar brings about good Hastening in Iftaar is from the manners of
the Prophets
Sahl Ibn Sa’ad radhiallaahu ‘anhu narrated that
the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, Abud-Dardaa’ radhiallaahu ‘anhu said that
Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
“The people will not cease to be upon good said,
as long as they hasten in breaking the
fast.”81 “Three things are from the manners of the
Prophets: hastening in break the fast,
Hastening in Iftaar is the Sunnah of delaying the Suhoor, and placing the right
Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam arm upon the left in prayer.”83

Sahl Ibn Sa’ad radhiallaahu ‘anhu narrated that Hastening in Iftaar is in opposition to the
the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, Jews and Christians and a cause for the
dominance of Islam
“My Ummah will not cease to be upon my
Sunnah as long as they do not await the Abu Hurairah radhiallaahu ‘anhu said that the
stars in breaking the fast.”82 Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

81
Bukhaaree # 1957
82 83
Ibn Hibbaan # 891 Majmu’ az-Zawaaid # 2/105

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“The religion of Islam will not cease to be with fresh dates then with older dates, and
uppermost as long as the people hasten to if not with dates then with some mouthfuls
break the fast, since the Jews and the of water.”85
Christians delay it.”84
Thus every Muslim should try to follow
There is a great lesson in this Hadeeth for this same order of preference.
the people who, in the name of precaution,
oppose the Sunnah by delaying the Iftaar. What should a person say upon breaking
They need to take a second look into their the fast?
dubious precaution!!!
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,
With what should one break the fast?
“Indeed there is for the fasting person,
Anas Bin Maalik radhiallaahu ‘anhu said that the when he breaks his fast, a supplication
Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, which is not rejected.”86

“The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam used to It is upon every Muslim to seize this
break the fast with fresh dates before opportunity and call upon Allaah being sure
praying (the Maghrib Salaah), and if not
85
Abu Daawood # 2356
84 86
Abu Daawood # 2353 Tirmidhee # 804

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that he will be answered, and know that Allaah.”87
Allaah does not respond to an inattentive
heart. Note - The Hadeeth which mentions the
Du’aa “Allaahumma laka sumtu wa bika
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam used to aamantu.....” is Da’eef (weak and therefore
make the following Du’aa upon breaking unauthentic).
the fast,
Providing food for a fasting person to
break his fast

The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

“He who gives food for a fasting person to

(Dhahabadh dhama’u wabtallatil ‘urooqu break his fast, he will receive the same
wa sabatal ajru Insha Allaah) reward as him, except that nothing will be
reduced from the fasting person’s
Which means, reward.”88

“The thirst is gone, the veins are

moistened and the reward is certain, Insha 87
Abu Daawood # 2357
88
Tirmidhee # 804

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ACTIONS WHICH NULLIFY THE “Allaah has excused for my Ummah
FAST mistakes, forgetfulness and what they are
forced to do.”90
1. Eating and drinking deliberately
2. Making oneself vomit
This applies only to the one who does so
consciously, and not one who does it One who has an attack of vomiting there is
forgetfully or accidentally, or is forced to nothing upon him, for the Prophet sallallaahu
do it. ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, “Whoever has an attack of vomiting, then
no atonement is required of him, but
“If one of you eats and drinks out of whoever vomits intentionally then let him
forgetfulness, the let him complete his fast, make atonement91 for it.”92
for it was indeed Allaah who gave him
food and drink.”89 3. Menstruation and after-birth bleeding

And he sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam also said, If menstruation or after-birth bleeding take
90
Al-Haakim # 2/198
91
i.e. to fast another day in its place
89 92
Bukhaaree # 1933 Abu Daawood # 2380

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place during the day time of fasting, then “So now have sexual relations with them
the fast breaks and the atonement of that and seek that which Allaah has ordained
fast becomes obligatory.93 for you (i.e. offspring).”95

4. Injections containing nourishment Imam Ibn al-Qayyim said in Zaadul Ma’aad

(2/60),
Giving nourishment intravenously in the
form of glucose or saline solution so that it “The Qur’aan shows that sexual
reaches the intestines breaks the fast.94 Also intercourse breaks the fast, just like eating
if the injection does not reach the intestines and drinking – no disagreement is known
but reaches the blood-stream then it concerning this.”
likewise breaks the fast. This is since it is
being used in place of food and drink.

5. Sexual intercourse in the day

Allaah the Almighty said about the night of

fasting,

93
Muslim # 79, 80
94 95
See Haqeeqatus-Siyaam of Ibn Taimiyyah Al-Qur’aan 2:187

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ATONEMENT (AL-QADAA) -MAKING “And be quick in the race for forgiveness
UP FOR THE MISSED FAST from your Lord.”97

When the atonement should be done Should the days be made up together in a
sequence?
It is not obligatory to make up the missed
days from Ramadhaan immediately It is not obligatory to make up the days
afterwards, rather it is an obligation which together (i.e. in succession).
may be delayed, due to what is reported
from Aa’ishah radhiallaahu ‘anhaa, Ibn ‘Abbaas radhiallaahu ‘anhumaa said,

“It used to be that I had days to make up “There is no harm if he fasts them
for Ramadhaan and I would not be able to separately.”98
do so except in Sha’baan.” 96
Atonement on behalf of the dead person
Nevertheless it is better to hasten in making
up the fasts, since this falls under the One who dies and had to make up for
general proofs of hastening to do good missed fasts, then for every day that he had
deeds and not delaying them. Allaah said,
97
Al-Qur’aan 3:133
96 98
Bukhaaree # 1950 Bukhaaree # 1950

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missed, a poor person will be fed. However, due to a vow was obligatory upon him,
if he had not kept a fast which he vowed then his heir should fast on his behalf.”100
(nadhr) to keep, then in this case his heir
should fast it on his behalf due to the And this is the view of Aa’ishah radhiallaahu
101
Hadeeth, ‘anhaa also.

“Whoever dies and there is a fast

remaining obligatory upon him – then his
heir should fast for him.”99

This atonement is due only on those fasts

which had been vowed by the deceased and
who did not keep them. Ibn ‘Abbaas
radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,

“If a man becomes ill in Ramadhaan and

dies having refrained from fasting, then
food should be given on his behalf and no
making up of the days is due, and if a fast
100
Muhallaa of Ibn Hazm # 7/7
99 101
Bukhaaree # 1952 At-Tahaawee in Mushkilul-Aathaar # 3/142

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EXPIATION (AL-KAFFAARAH) RECOMPENSE (AL-FIDYAH)

Whoever nullifies his fast with sexual Fidyah is obligatory on the following
intercourse is required to make up the fast people:
with another day (qadaa) and also to
expiate as follows: 1. The old man or woman who does not
have the ability to fast.
1. Freeing a slave if he is able, if not, 2. An ill person who has no hope of
2. Fast for two months continuously, if he is regaining health or recovering from his
not able to do this, illness.
3. Feed 60 poor people. 3. A pregnant or breast-feeding woman
who fears for herself or her child.
If he is not capable of doing any of the
above three things, then the obligation of These three kinds of people can leave the
expiation is removed from him.102 fast and shall be required to give Fidyah
which is that one poor person is given half
a Saa’ of grains (one Saa’ is equivalent to 2
kg and 40 gm)103

102 103
Muslim # 1111 Daaraqutnee # 1/17

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LAILATUL-QADR (THE NIGHT OF This is an erroneous and baseless claim.
DECREE)
When is it?
Its excellence
The most correct saying, and Allaah knows
Allaah the Mighty and Majestic says, best, is that it occurs in the odd nights of
the last ten nights of Ramadhaan. Allaah’s
“The Night of Decree is better than a Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam while doing
thousand months.”104 I’tikaaf106 in the last ten days of
Ramadhaan used to say,
And it is on this night that all the Wise
Decrees of Allaah are made. “Seek out Lailatul-Qadr in the (odd
nights) of the last ten of Ramadhaan.”107
“Therein is decreed every matter of
ordainment, as a command from us.”105 That is, the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and the 29th
night. And the Prophet ‘alaihissalaam said,
Note - Some people say that the decree of
matters happens on the 15th of Sha’baan. “And if one of you is too weak or unable

104 106
Al-Qur’aan 97:3 Seclusion in the Masjid
105 107
Al-Qur’aan 44:4-5 Bukhaaree # 2017

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then let him not allow that to make him “Allaahumma innaka ‘affuwwun tuhibbul
miss the final seven.”108 ‘afwa fa’fu ‘annee.”

That is the 25th, 27th and the 29th night. Which means,

How should a Muslim seek Lailatul- “O Allaah you are the One who pardons
Qadr? greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon
me.” 110
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,
During these nights, to stay awake in
“Whoever stands (in Prayer) in Lailatul- prayer, to instruct one’s family the same
Qadr out of Eemaan (correct belief) and and to stay away from one’s wife is from
seeking reward then his previous sins are the Sunnah of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa
forgiven.”109 111
sallam. And the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
used to exert himself more in the last ten
It is recommended to supplicate a great deal nights of Ramadhaan than he would at
in it with the Du’aa, other times.112

110
Tirmidhee # 3760
108 111
Bukhaaree # 2015 Bukhaaree # 2024
109 112
Bukhaaree # 1901 Muslim # 1174

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The Signs of Lailatul-Qadr TARAAWEEH PRAYERS115

The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, It is important first of all to understand that
Taraaweeh (resting), Tahajjud (from
“On the morning following Lailatul-Qadr hajada: remained awake at night),
the sun rises not having any rays, as if it Qiyaamul-lail (standing at night)116, all
were a brass dish, until it rises up.”113 refer to the same prayer. 117

And he sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, 115

It was the practice of the Prophet sallallaahu
‘alaihi wa sallam to pray an odd number of rak’ahs
“Lailatul-Qadr is calm and pleasant, after the ‘Ishaa prayer in the last third part of the
night. Nevertheless it may be prayed anytime from
neither hot nor cold, the sun rises on its after the ‘Ishaa prayer until before the dawn of Fajr.
morning being feeble and red.”114 See also the next chapter on Witr. Irwaa ul Ghaleel
# 2/158 and Bukhaaree # 996
116
Some people think that Tahajjud is a night prayer
different from Qiyaamul-lail or Taraaweeh. Others
think that Nafl (supererogatory) prayers at night are
only recommended during Ramadhaan. Thus, it is
important to clarify these misunderstandings, and
emphasize what was mentioned above, i.e. that there
is only one Nafl prayer at night, with different names
113
Muslim # 762 used to describe it. Even though Taraaweeh is most
114
Ibn Khuzaimah # 3/23 commonly used to describe it in Ramadhaan, this

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It’s Prescription in Congregation night prayers.118

According to the long Hadeeth of Aa’ishah It is from this Hadeeth that we get the proof
radhiallaahu ‘anhaa, Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu for performing the Taraaweeh prayer in
‘alaihi wa sallam led the congregation in congregation.
Qiyaamul-lail for three nights and the
people participated in it with a great amount And based upon this action of the Prophet
of zeal and enthusiasm. Then he sallallaahu sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, ‘Umar radhiallaahu ‘anhu
‘alaihi wa sallam, due to the fear that this night revived this Sunnah of praying the
prayer would be made obligatory upon the Taraaweeh prayer in congregation during
people stopped leading the people in the his caliphate since the fear of the Prophet
sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam that this prayer may

does not make it a different prayer. Furthermore, in become obligatory upon the people was
some countries and Masjids, mostly during the removed with his passing away.119
second half of Ramadhaan, people pray Taraaweeh
early in the night, and then pray another prayer that The Number of Rak’ahs120
they call Tahajjud at the end of the night. This
practice is a Bid’ah (innovation) that has no basis in
the practice of the Salaf (the Pious Predecessors). Aa’ishah radhiallaahu ‘anhaa said,
See The Night Prayer, Jibaaly Pg 7-8
117 118
Other names for the night prayer are Salaatul- Bukhaaree # 1129
119
Lail (the night prayer) and Witr (odd-numbered). Bukhaaree # 2010
120
See footnote 125 Plural of Rak’ah – unit of prayer

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“Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam with proper pronunciation and a slow pace.
did not increase upon eleven Rak’ahs in Those who hasten in their recitation, their
Ramadhaan, or outside of it.” 121 bowing and prostration should learn a
lesson from this.
And the righteous Caliph ‘Umar radhiallaahu
‘anhu, when he revived the Sunnah of
praying the Taraaweeh in congregation, he
instructed Ubay Bin Ka’ab and Tameem
ad-Daaree radhiallaahu ‘anhumaa to lead the
people in 11 Rak’ahs of Qiyaamul-lail.122

And the prayer of Allaah’s Messenger

sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam was well-spaced -
meaning, that his bowing, prostration and
his standing would be of similar length and
his prostration would be as long as it would
take to recite 50 verses of the Qur’aan.123
And his recitation of the Qur’aan would be
121
Bukhaaree # 2010
122
Muwattaa Imaam Maalik # 1/115
123
Bukhaaree # 1123

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THE WITR PRAYER124 125 However, one is allowed to pray two
rak’ahs after the Witr prayer sometimes.130
Its maximum is eleven rak’ahs.126
Description of the Witr prayer
127
As a minimum, it is one rak’ah.
If one is praying three rak’ahs, it may be
However, the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam prayed in any of the two fashions:
would pray three rak’ahs generally after
praying eight rak’ahs.128 1. Praying all three rak’ahs together such
that he sits for the Tashahhud in the last
It is recommended to make Witr as the last rak’ah only.131
prayer of the night.129
2. Performing two rak’ahs individually
124
This chapter has been added by the Publisher with Salaams (salutations), and then one
rak’ah with Salaams.132
125
Witr in particular has two meanings in the
Sunnah. It usually refers to the last one or three
rak’ahs of the night prayer. But it sometimes means
all of the night prayers because, collectively, they
Note - The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
are odd numbered. forbade praying a three-rak’ah Witr prayer
126
Bukhaaree # 994
127 130
Muslim # 1754 Abu Daawood # 1340
128 131
Nasaaee # 1700 The Night Prayer, Jibaaly Pg 101
129 132
Bukhaaree # 998 The Night Prayer, Jibaaly Pg 101

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like the Maghrib Salaah which has two
tashahhuds133

If one is praying more than three,

He may perform every two rak’ahs

individually with Salaams (salutations) and
then pray one rak’ah with Salaams.134

Qunoot in Witr (Supplication during the

prayer while in the standing posture)

After finishing the Qur’aanic recitation in

the last rak’ah of Witr, before going to the
rukoo’, one should sometimes supplicate
with what the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
taught his grandson Hasan radhiallaahu ‘anhu:

133
Tahaawee and Daaraqutnee; The Night Prayer,
Jibaaly Pg 107
134
The Night Prayer, Jibaaly Pg 101

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‘Allaahumma ihdinee feeman hadayt; wa honored. Blessed are You, our Lord, and
‘aafinee feeman ‘aafayt; wa tawallanee exalted.’135
feeman tawallayt; wa baariklee feemaa
a’tayt; wa qinee sharra maa qadayt; For an in-depth understanding of the Night
innaka taqdhee wa-laa yuqdhaa ‘alayk; prayer of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
wa innahoo laa yadhillu man waalayt; wa- one should refer to the excellent book, “The
laa ya’izzu man ‘aadayt; tabaarakta Night Prayers, Qiyaam and Taraaweeh” by
rabbanaa wa ta’aalayt.’ Shaikh Muhammad al Jibaaly

Which means:

‘O Allaah, guide me with those whom You

have guided; protect me with those whom
You have protected; befriend me with those
whom You have befriended; bless for me
what You have bestowed (on me); shelter
me from the evil of what You have decreed.
Indeed, You decree, and none can dominate
You; he whom You befriend will never be
humiliated, nor will Your enemy ever be
135
Abu Daawood # 1425-6

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GENEROSITY IN RAMADHAAN RECITATION OF THE QUR’AAN

To be very generous during the month of The month of Ramadhaan is the month of
Ramadhaan is from the Sunnah of Prophet the Qur’aan since this was the month in
Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. Ibn which the Qur’aan was revealed. Therefore,
‘Abbaas radhiallaahu ‘anhu said, one should recite the Qur’aan (and ponder
over its meaning) as much as possible.
“The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam was the
most generous of people, and in the month The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam used to
of Ramadhaan he would increase in his recite the Qur’aan to Jibraeel ‘alaihissalaam
generosity as if it were a wave of a once every Ramadhaan but in the last
pleasant cool wind.”136 Ramadhaan of his life, he recited the
Qur’aan twice before Jibraeel ‘alaihissalaam.137

136 137
Bukhaaree # 6 Bukhaaree # 4998

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ZAKAATUL-FITR Saa’ due to the saying of the Prophet
sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam,

Its Ruling
“Give a Saa’ of wheat or wheat grain for
The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam made it two people.”141
obligatory upon every Muslim, the young
and the old, the male and the female, and On whose behalf should a man give?
the free and the slave.138 However, it is not
obligatory upon the child in the mother’s The Muslim gives it for himself and for
womb. those whom he takes care of, young or old,
male or female, free or slave.
What should be given as Zakaatul-Fitr?
Ibn ‘Umar radhiallaahu ‘anhumaa said,
Anything which a person uses as his food –
one Saa’139of it should be given, such as “Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam
barley, dates, dried curds, raisins or rye.140 ordered Sadaqatul-Fitr on behalf of the
If wheat is being given, then only half a young and the old, and the free and the
slave – whom you provide for.”142
138
Muslim # 984
139 141
One Saa’ is equal to 2 kg and 40 gm Musnad Ahmed # 5/432
140 142
Ibn Khuzaimah # 4/80 Daaraqutnee # 2/141

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To whom should it be given? entrusted me to look after the Zakaah of
Ramadhaan.”144
The poor and the needy are the people
entitled to it. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa When it is to be given
143
sallam allocated this as food for the needy.
It is to be given before the people go out for
There are some people who think that the ‘Eid prayer. It is not permissible to
Zakaatul-Fitr can be given to all eight delay it until after the prayer, nor to give it
categories who can receive Zakaah – but in advance, except by a day or two as is
this has no proof. reported from the practice of Ibn ‘Umar
145
radhiallaahu ‘anhu. Also whoever gives it after
How it should be given the prayer, it is merely a Sadaqah.146

It is from the Sunnah that there should be a To give money instead of Zakaatul-Fitr
person with whom it is gathered just as the
Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam entrusted Abu Zakaatul-Fitr is legislated to be given only
Hurairah radhiallaahu ‘anhu who said, in the form of food grains. To give money

“Allaah’s Messenger sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam

144
Bukhaaree # 2311
145
Ibn Maajah # 1827
143 146
Ibn Maajah # 1827 Abu Daawood # 1622

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instead of food grains is a clear opposition SOME WEAK AHAADEETH QUOTED
of the Sunnah. However, a person may give OFTEN IN THE MONTH OF
the amount of money required to procure RAMADHAAN
the grains to a person who will purchase it
on his behalf and is in-charge of 1. “If the servants knew how great
distributing it.147 Ramadhaan was, then they would wish
that Ramadhaan lasted all year. Indeed
Its Wisdom and benefits paradise is decorated for Ramadhaan
from the start of the year till the next
1. It is a means of purification for those year.”149
who fasted, from mistakes and indecent
talk. This Hadeeth is mawdoo’ (fabricated).
2. It makes for an excellent provision for
the needy. 2. “O people a very great month has come
3. The poor are saved from begging on the upon you ...whoever seeks nearness to
blessed day of ‘Eid.148 Him with a good deed in it will be like
performing an obligatory action in other
month...it is a month the beginning of
which is a mercy, the middle is forgiveness
147
Majmu’ Fataawaa Bin Baaz # 14/208
148 149
Ibn Maajah # 1872 Al-Mawdoo’aat # 4/188-189

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and its end is granting of freedom from APPENDIX 1: VOLUNTARY FASTS
the Fire..”150
The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu 'alaihi wa
This Hadeeth is Da’eef (weak). sallam encouraged the fasting of the
following days:
3. “Fast and you will be healthy.”151
1) Fasting the six days of Shawwaal153
This Hadeeth is Da’eef and Munkar (weak
and rejected) The Prophet sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam
said:
4. “He who abandons fasting during a day
of Ramadhaan without a valid excuse, or “Whoever fasts Ramadhaan and then
illness – then even if he were to fast follows it up with (any) six (days of
forever it would not make up for it.”152 fasting) in Shawwaal, then it would be as
if he has fasted perpetually.”154
This Hadeeth is also Da’eef.
2) Fasting the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah155,
153
The month after Ramadhaan according to the
150
Ilalul-Hadeeth of Ibn Abee Haatim # 1/249 Islamic Calendar.
151 154
Al-Kaamil # 7/2521 Muslim # 2750
152 155
Fathul-Baaree # 4/121 The last month of the Islamic Calendar

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i.e. the day of 'Arafah156 - for those not 'Aashooraa158, whereupon be said:
performing the Hajj
“It expiates the sins of the preceding
Abu Qataadah Al-Ansaaree radhiallaahu ‘anhu year.”159
said the Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu 'alaihi
wa sallam was asked about fasting the day of “Ibn ‘Abbaas radhiallaahu ‘anhu narrated,
‘Arafah, whereupon he said:
“That the Prophet came to Medina and
“It is an expiation for (the sins of) the saw the Jews fasting on the day of
previous (year) and the following ‘Aashooraa. He asked them about that.
(year).”157 They replied, "This is a good day, the day
on which Allah rescued the Children of
3) The fast of the Day of 'Aashooraa Israel from their enemy. So Moosaa
including the day before or the day after ‘alaihissalaam fasted this day." The Prophet
sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "We have more
Abu Qataadah Al-Ansaari radhiallaahu ‘anhu said claim over Moosaa than you." So, the
that the Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu 'alaihi wa Prophet fasted on that day and ordered the
sallam was asked about fasting on the day of

158
The 10th of Muharram which is the 1st month of
156
The ninth of Dhul-Hijjah the Islamic Calendar
157 159
Muslim # 2739 Muslim # 2739

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Muslims) to fast (on that day).”160 (days).”162

And Abdullah Ibn 'Abbaas also reported 5) The fast of (every) Monday and
that the Messenger of Allah sallallaahu 'alaihi wa Thursday.
sallam had said:
The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu 'alaihi wa
“If I live till the next (year), I would sallam said:
definitely observe fast on the 9th (along
with the tenth of Muharram)."161 “The deeds (of the son of Aadam) are
presented (before Allaah) (every) Monday
4) Fasting most of Sha'baan and Thursday, and I like it that my actions
are presented whilst I am fasting.”163
Aa’ishah radhiallaahu ‘anhaa said,
And he sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam was asked about
“I never saw him observing (voluntary fasting (every) Monday, and he said:
fasts) more in any other month than that
of Sha'baan. He observed fast throughout “That is the day on which I was born, and
the month of Sha'baan except a few (the day) on which revelation was sent

160 162
Bukhaaree # 2004 Bukhaaree # 1969-70
161 163
Muslim # 2661-2 Saheeh al-Jaami’ # 2956

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down upon me.”164 7) The fast of Prophet Daawood
‘alaihissalaam, i.e. fasting every other day.
6) Fasting the 13th, 14th and 15th of every
month The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu 'alaihi wa
sallam said:
Abu Hurairah radhiallaahu ‘anhu said,
“The most beloved fast to Allaah is the fast
“The Prophet sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam advised of Daawood, and the most beloved prayer
me about three things – to offer Salaat-ud- to Allaah is the prayer of Daawood. He
Duhaa (forenoon prayer), to pray Witr used to sleep half the night and stand for
before sleeping and to fast three days in a prayer for a third of the night and used to
month.”165 sleep a sixth of the night, and he used to
fast every other day.”167
Also the Prophet sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam said,

“The fast of three days every month, from

one Ramadhaan to another are equivalent
to fasting perpetually.”166
164
Muslim # 2742
165
Nasaaee # 2408
166 167
Muslim # 2739 Muslim # 2731

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APPENDIX 2 - THE ‘EID PRAYER women were instructed to go to the ‘Eid
prayer to be a part of the believers’
There are two annual ‘Eids (festivals) supplications even though they do not
which Allaah has granted the Muslims: ‘Eid pray.169
ul Fitr and ‘Eid ul Adhaa.168
It is recommended to take a bath and adorn
st
‘Eid ul Fitr is the 1 day of the Islamic oneself for the occasion of ‘Eid.170
month of Shawwaal and it marks the end of
Ramadhaan. ‘Eid ul Adhaa is the 10th day It is recommended to eat something
of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah and it especially dates before the ‘Eid prayer on
marks the end of the major rites of hajj. the morning of ‘Eid ul Fitr.

The ‘Eid prayer is offered on both the ‘Eids As for ‘Eid ul Adhaa, it is recommended to
and is obligatory upon every Muslim who eat from the meat of sacrifice after the ‘Eid
is capable of performing it. Women are not prayer.171
exempted from the obligation of attending
the ‘Eid prayer since the Prophet sallallaahu The Sunnah is to pray the ‘Eid prayer in the
‘alaihi wa sallam commanded them to attend the
Eid prayer and even the menstruating 169
Bukhaaree # 974, As-Saheehah # 2408 &2115
170
Irwaa ul Ghaleel Ar. 146, Musannaf Abdur-
Razzaak Ar. 5753, As-Saheehah Ar. 1279
168 171
Saheeh Sunan Abee Daawood # 1134 Saheeh Ibn Maajah # 1756, Tirmidhee

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Musallaa172 (open field) and not in a The ‘Eid prayer should be held in the
Masjid.173 morning and the best time to pray it is
shortly after sunrise.177
One should pronounce the takbeer in an
audible manner on the way to the Musallaa There is no prayer before or after the ‘Eid
up until the Imaam stands up to lead the prayer.178
people in the ‘Eid prayer.174
The ‘Eid prayer is not preceded by the
It is from Sunnah to take one path for going Adhaan or the Iqaamah.179
to the ‘Eid prayer and another path while
returning.175 In the ‘Eid prayer the Imaam leads the
people in praying two rak’ahs.180
It is also from the Sunnah to walk to the
Musallaa176 unless the place is too far to be The ‘Eid prayer consists of two rak’ahs and
reached in reasonable time on foot. it has additional takbeers as described:

The takbeers should be made before the

172
Also known as ‘Eidgaah in Urdu
173 177
Bukhaaree # 956 Ibn Maajah #1317
174 178
Irwaa ul Ghaleel # 650 Bukhaaree # 989
175 179
Bukhaaree # 986 Bukhaaree # 960
176 180
Ibn Maajah # 1295 Nasaa’ee # 1420

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recitation. There should be seven takbeers AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF CIS
in the first rak’ah and five in the second. 181
To promote True understanding of Islam as
After the prayer, the Imaam delivers a understood by the first three generations of
Khutbah (sermon) in which he exhorts the Muslim scholars amongst all people.
people to fear Allaah and to give Sadaqah
To clear misconceptions about Islam amongst
(charity).182 A Muslim has the choice either Muslims and Non-Muslims.
to sit for the Khutbah or to leave.183
ACTIVITIES OF CIS
If one misses the ‘Eid prayer, then let him
pray two rak’ahs as qadaa (atonement).184 A Circulating library which lends books on
Islam as well as Comparative religion.

Dars (explanation) of Qur’aan and Saheeh

Bukhaaree every Sunday after Zuhr and
Maghrib respectively.

181
Printing and publishing of authentic material on
Irwaa ul Ghaleel # 639 Islam for free distribution amongst Muslims
182
Fath ul Baaree # 978, Mishkaat # 1397
183 and non-Muslims.
Abu Daawood # 1155
184
Bukhaaree, Chapter – if one misses the ‘Eid
prayer then let him pray two rak’ahs.

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 Conducting lectures and Da’wah training NOTES
workshops.

Kulliyatul Hadeeth - A Madrasah catering to

Specialization in Hadeeth.

Sales of authentic Books & CDs.

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 NOTES NOTES

cis.org.in 111 cis.org.in 112

 NOTES

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