Ayyamul Bidh Fasting: Its History from the Story of Prophet Adam to the Light of the Full Moon, Its Reward is Like Fasting for a Whole Year

Kapanlagi.com - Ayyamul Bidh fasting, also known as "the white days", is one of the highly recommended Sunnah fasts in Islamic teachings. It is observed on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the Hijri month, coinciding with the full moon phase that emits bright light at night.

The significance of this fasting comes from the words of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, which state that fasting for three days every month will earn rewards equivalent to fasting for an entire year. In addition to offering profound spiritual benefits, Ayyamul Bidh fasting is also closely related to the history of Prophet Adam AS and has remarkable health benefits.

But, do you know the origins of Ayyamul Bidh fasting? Why is it called "the white days"? What are the virtues that Muslims can gain from this fasting? Let’s explore more about this blessed fasting, summarized from various sources by Kapanlagi.com on Wednesday (12/2/2025).

1. The Origin of the Name Ayyamul Bidh

The origin of the name Ayyamul Bidh, or known as the white days, holds an interesting story that connects it to Prophet Adam AS. In one of the famous narrations, after being sent down to earth, the body of Prophet Adam AS was burned by the sunlight until it turned black.

Allah SWT then commanded him to fast for three consecutive days, specifically on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the Hijri month. Each day of fasting, his body gradually returned to being white, until finally his entire body shone white after three days. This is what underlies the naming of Ayyamul Bidh.

On the other hand, there is also a version that links this name to the beauty of the full moon that illuminates those nights, thus these days are also nicknamed 'the white days'. The Prophet Muhammad SAW was also known to enjoy fasting on these days, especially during the bright nights, adding to the significance of this meaningful moment.

2. The Meaning Behind the Naming of Ayyamul Bidh

Both versions of the origin of the name Ayyamul Bidh depict a close relationship between light and purity, both in a physical context—such as the whitening of the body of Prophet Adam AS—and in a symbolic meaning, namely the brightness of the full moon. Although there are variations in the narratives, both agree on the profound meaning of the sunnah fasting of Ayyamul Bidh, which is highly recommended in Islam.

In Islamic tradition, light symbolizes guidance and truth, while purity reflects the cleanliness of the soul. By fasting on Ayyamul Bidh, every Muslim strives to purify themselves, both physically and spiritually, while also strengthening their relationship with Allah SWT. Additionally, this fast is also a manifestation of obedience to the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, who consistently practiced it.

3. The Virtues of Ayyamul Bidh Fasting

Prophet Muhammad SAW greatly encouraged his followers to observe the Ayyamul Bidh fast, which falls on the white days of each month. In a hadith narrated by An-Nasa'i, he stated, "Whoever fasts three days each month, it is as if he has fasted the entire year." This emphasizes the immense reward contained in this fast.

Moreover, Ayyamul Bidh fasting also has another special characteristic, which is its ability to erase minor sins that have been committed. In another hadith narrated by Imam Ahmad, Prophet Muhammad SAW added, "Fasting three days each month and fasting on the Day of Arafah can erase the sins of the past year."

4. How to Fast Ayyamul Bidh

This fasting procedure is the same as other sunnah fasts. Here are the steps:

1. Intention for Ayyamul Bidh Fasting

• The intention can be made at night before dawn or in the morning before the time of Dhuhr if one has not eaten or drunk.
• The phrase for the intention of Ayyamul Bidh fasting:

نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ أَيَّامِ الْبِيْضِ سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى

Nawaitu shauma ayyami bidh sunnatan lillahi ta'ala

(Meaning: I intend to fast Ayyamul Bidh, a sunnah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala.)

2. Guarding Oneself from Things that Nullify the Fast

Like other fasts, Muslims must refrain from eating, drinking, and anything that nullifies the fast from dawn until sunset.

3. Breaking the Fast at Maghrib

It is recommended to break the fast with sweet foods like dates, in accordance with the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.

5. People Also Ask

1. What is meant by Ayyamul Bidh?

Ayyamul Bidh is a sunnah fast that is observed on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the Hijri month, coinciding with the full moon.

2. Why is it called "the white days"?

This is because on these dates, the full moon shines brightly, and also based on the story of Prophet Adam AS, whose body became white again after fasting for three days.

3. Is the Ayyamul Bidh fast obligatory?

No. This fast is sunnah but highly recommended because it has many virtues.

4. What are the virtues of this fast?

The Ayyamul Bidh fast provides rewards as if fasting throughout the year, increases piety, and has health benefits.

5. What if I forget or cannot fast on the 13th-15th?

If one is unable to observe the fast on these dates, there is no obligation to make it up because this fast is not obligatory.

(kpl/rmt)