Full of Blessings! Here are the Virtues of Eid al-Adha Fasting, from Forgiving Sins to Calming the Soul

Kapanlagi.com - Every moment in the Islamic calendar has its own uniqueness. However, the days leading up to Idul Adha hold a very grand position in the view of Sharia. The fasts observed on these days are not merely routine acts of worship, but carry extraordinary rewards that can even erase sins.

Many Muslims are not yet aware that before Idul Adha, there are two types of fasts that are highly recommended. The Tarwiyah and Arafah fasts not only strengthen faith but also bring deep spiritual benefits. The Prophet Muhammad SAW himself exemplified this fasting as a form of love for Allah SWT.

In a hadith it is mentioned, "Fasting on the day of Arafah can erase the sins of the past two years and the coming year, and fasting on Ashura erases the sins of the past year" (HR Muslim). This statement not only touches on the aspect of reward but also illustrates the special time that Allah has chosen. So, what are the stages and virtues of this fasting?

1. The Beginning of Everything: Fasting of Dzulhijjah

This fast begins on the 1st of Dzulhijjah and lasts for seven days. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the virtue of good deeds during the first ten days of Dzulhijjah, including fasting. In a hadith narrated by Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), he said, "There are no days that are greater in the sight of Allah and in which good deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days (the first of Dzulhijjah)" (HR Ahmad).

The intention for this fast is quite simple: "Nawaitu shouma syahri dzulhijjah sunnatan lillahi ta'ala." It means: I intend to fast the Sunnah of the month of Dzulhijjah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala. This fast opens a spiritual path for Muslims to purify themselves and increase their good deeds.

Although not everyone is able to fast for seven consecutive days, filling these days with even one day of fasting is already part of great virtue. Moreover, if combined with dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and charity, the rewards will multiply.

2. Peak Preparation: Tarwiyah Fast

The Tarwiyah Fast is observed on the 8th of Dhu al-Hijjah. The hadith supporting this fast states, "The fast of the day of Tarwiyah can erase sins for a year" (HR Abus Syekh Al-Ishfahani and Ibnun Najar). Although the chain of narration of this hadith is debated, many scholars still recommend it because it is part of good deeds during the first ten days of Dhu al-Hijjah.

The intention is: "Nawaitu shouma tarwiyata sunnatan lillahi ta'ala." Meaning: I intend to fast Tarwiyah as a sunnah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala. Today serves as a moment of reflection, as we prepare to welcome the more significant day, which is Arafah.

Although some scholars criticize the authenticity of the chain of narration of the Tarwiyah hadith, there are other evidences that support the encouragement to perform good deeds, especially during the first ten days of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Therefore, this fast still holds an important position in sunnah worship.

3. The Most Significant Day: Arafah Fast

The 9th of Dzulhijjah is the time for the Arafah fast, one day before Idul Adha. This is the spiritual peak for Muslims who are not performing Hajj. The Prophet Muhammad SAW said: "The Arafah fast can expiate sins from the past year and the coming year" (HR Muslim).

The intention is: "Nawaitu shouma arafata sunnatan lillahi ta'ala." This means: I intend to fast the Sunnah of Arafah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala. Sins from two years are forgiven through this act of worship, a reward that is hard to find in other deeds.

Scholars emphasize that this is the most important fast after Ramadan. In the hadith of Ibn Abbas narrated by Bukhari, it is mentioned that deeds done in these ten days are more virtuous even compared to jihad, except for those who are martyred. This reinforces the spiritual value of the Arafah fast.

4. Combination of Good Deeds: More than Just Fasting

In addition to fasting, it is also recommended to increase dhikr, send blessings upon the Prophet, read the Qur'an, and give charity. This strengthens good deeds during the days that Allah has honored. These deeds not only enrich rewards but also purify the heart and soul.

"There is no other day that Allah loves to be filled with worship as much as He loves these ten days" (HR At-Tirmidzi). This means that all acts of worship during these days carry greater weight than on ordinary days. Thus, it would be a pity to let them pass by without taking advantage.

Charity at the right time becomes a gateway to broader sustenance and blessings.

5. Preparation for Eid al-Adha with a Pure Soul

Observing this fast can allow Muslims to enter Eid al-Adha in a spiritually cleaner state. A soul refined through fasting and good deeds makes the moment of sacrifice more meaningful. It is not just about meat, but about submission to Allah.

The virtue of fasting before Eid al-Adha emphasizes that Eid al-Adha is not just an ordinary holiday. It is the culmination of a series of profound worship over the ten days preceding it. And all of this culminates in a celebration rich with spiritual meaning.

Experiencing Eid al-Adha without prior worship preparation will feel bland. In contrast, for those who are earnest in their fasting and good deeds, Eid al-Adha will feel like a true day of victory.

6. Questions About Fasting for Eid al-Adha

What is the fast of Tarwiyah and Arafah?

The fast of Tarwiyah is observed on the 8th of Dzulhijjah, while the fast of Arafah is observed on the 9th of Dzulhijjah. Both are sunnah fasts that have many virtues.

Is fasting on Arafah obligatory for all Muslims?

Fasting on Arafah is not obligatory. It is a highly recommended sunnah fast for Muslims who are not performing the Hajj pilgrimage.

What are the benefits of fasting on Tarwiyah and Arafah?

The benefits of this fast include the forgiveness of sins, the acceptance of prayers, the abundance of rewards, and the enhancement of faith as well as physical and mental health.

How to intend to fast on Tarwiyah and Arafah?

The intention to fast on Tarwiyah and Arafah can be made in the heart, by expressing the desire to perform the sunnah fast on that day.

(kpl/frr)