Is Fasting Mandatory Before the Idul Adha Prayer? Here's the Explanation

Kapanlagi.com - The Idul Adha prayer, a moment eagerly awaited by Muslims around the world, always holds intriguing questions each year: Is fasting before performing the Idul Adha prayer mandatory?

Some people argue that fasting is a necessity as a spiritual preparation, while others doubt the validity and obligation of fasting. Over time, various sources and scholars have provided recommendations regarding whether to eat or not before the Idul Adha prayer.

This article will thoroughly discuss the various views, exploring from historical, jurisprudential, and the wisdom behind the recommendations given. So, is fasting before the Idul Adha prayer really an obligation? Let's delve into the complete explanation!

1. Public Opinion Regarding Fasting Before Idul Adha Prayer

Before discussing further, let us first understand what is meant by fasting proposed by some circles before the Idul Adha prayer. Based on several sources, the fasting referred to is not a full-day obligatory fast, but rather a temporary abstention from eating before performing the Idul Adha prayer. Most scholars recommend not eating beforehand, as a form of sunnah that should be practiced.

The hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW serves as the main basis for understanding this matter. The Prophet SAW did not eat on the day of Idul Adha before performing the prayer. He only consumed the meat of the qurban after the prayer was completed. This indicates that fasting in this context is more about refraining from eating, rather than a full-day fast as commonly practiced during the month of Ramadan. Thus, fasting here is not an absolute obligation, but it is recommended.

2. Opinions of the Shafi'i and Hanafi Scholars

According to the Shafi'i scholars, the recommendation to not eat before the Idul Adha prayer applies to everyone, whether they are going to sacrifice or not. Imam Nawawi states that although there is no obligation to fast on that day, Muslims are encouraged to refrain from eating until the prayer is completed. "This is part of the sunnah followed by the Prophet Muhammad SAW," said Imam Nawawi.

However, in contrast to the opinion of the Shafi'i scholars, the Hanafi and Hanbali scholars link the recommendation to not eat on Idul Adha with the intention to sacrifice. If someone does not have a sacrificial animal, then they may eat before the prayer. Imam Ahmad also stated similarly, mentioning that this type of fasting only applies to those who are sacrificing, as they will eat from their slaughtered animal after the prayer.

3. Hadith and Wisdom of Not Eating Before the Idul Adha Prayer

As mentioned in the hadith narrated by Abdullah bin Buraidah, the Prophet Muhammad SAW did not eat on the day of Idul Adha before the prayer, and only after that did he enjoy the sacrificial meat. The wisdom behind this recommendation is so that Muslims can enjoy the results of the sacrifice with full blessings after the prayer, and to show seriousness in performing the worship.

4. Is This Fast Mandatory or Just Sunnah?

After examining the opinions of the scholars and referring to the existing hadiths, it can be concluded that fasting before the Idul Adha prayer is not an obligation, but rather a highly recommended practice. The fasting referred to here is refraining from eating before performing the prayer, not fasting the whole day. Many scholars encourage the community to observe this sunnah as a manifestation of obedience to Allah and to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad SAW. However, it is important to remember that fasting on the day of Idul Fitri and Idul Adha is haram, so Muslims are prohibited from fasting entirely on these special days. As an alternative, it is recommended not to eat before the prayer, especially for those who are making a sacrifice.

5. Questions and Answers About Fasting Before Idul Adha Prayer:

Q: Is fasting before the Idul Adha prayer mandatory?

A: No, fasting before the Idul Adha prayer is not obligatory, but rather a recommended sunnah. Fasting here means refraining from eating beforehand, not fasting for a full day.

Q: Why did the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) not eat before the Idul Adha prayer?

A: The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) did not eat before the Idul Adha prayer so that he could enjoy the results of the sacrifice after the prayer. This is also a way to express gratitude for Allah's blessings.

Q: What is the ruling on eating before the Idul Adha prayer if one is not sacrificing?

A: If someone is not making a sacrifice, then there is no issue with eating before the prayer. However, it is recommended to refrain from eating as a way to follow the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

(kpl/mni)