Preparation for Welcoming Idul Adha, Here are the Sunnah Fasts Recommended by the Prophet Muhammad

Kapanlagi.com - As the Day of Idul Adha approaches, Muslims have the opportunity to gain extraordinary rewards through the practice of Sunnah fasting. During the first 10 days of the month of Dzulhijjah, there are several types of fasting directly recommended by the Prophet Muhammad SAW. These fasts are not only a means of worship but also a precious moment for the purification of the soul.

Several hadiths mention that righteous deeds in the early days of Dzulhijjah are greatly loved by Allah SWT, even better than jihad, except for those who go to jihad with their wealth and lives without returning. This hadith shows how noble these times are when used for fasting and other acts of worship.

One hadith states: "The Prophet Muhammad shallallahu 'alaihi wa sallam used to fast on the first nine days of Dzulhijjah, on the day of 'Asyura' (10 Muharram), and fast three days every month, at the beginning of the month on Mondays and Thursdays." (HR. Abu Daud and An-Nasa'i). This hadith is used by scholars as evidence to encourage fasting on the first 9 days of the month of Dzulhijjah, which also precedes the Day of Idul Adha. Therefore, understanding and practicing Sunnah fasting before Idul Adha becomes a form of noble and blessed exemplification.

1. Fasting at the Beginning of Dzulhijjah: The First 7 Days of Meaningful Fasting

Throughout the first seven days of the month of Dzulhijjah, Muslims are highly encouraged to fast. This fast is part of the worship that is directly mentioned in the hadith of the Prophet, including the practice of the Messenger of Allah (SAW) who never neglected it.

As mentioned in the hadith of Hafshah RA: "There are four things that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) never abandoned, namely fasting on Ashura, fasting for 9 days in the month of Dzulhijjah, fasting three days every month, and two rak'ahs before dawn." (HR Ahmad and An-Nasa'i). This hadith serves as the main foundation for the practice of the sunnah fast at the beginning of Dzulhijjah.

Each day during these first seven days also has significant historical meaning. From the forgiveness of Prophet Adam to the closing of the gates of hell on the seventh day, all reflect how special this time is. The intention for fasting in Dzulhijjah is:

Nawaitu shauma syahri dul hijjah sunnatan lillaahi ta'aalaa (I intend to fast in the month of Dzulhijjah, a sunnah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala).

2. Tarwiyah Fast: Fasting on the 8th of Dzulhijjah

The eighth day of the month of Dzulhijjah is known as Yaumu Tarwiyah, and on this day it is sunnah to observe the Tarwiyah fast. Although the hadith regarding its virtue is considered weak, many scholars still recommend it as part of fadhailul a'mal (virtues of deeds).

It is narrated from Ibn Abbas RA: "Whoever fasts for 10 days, then for each day it is like fasting for a month. And, fasting on the day of Tarwiyah is like fasting for a year." (HR. Ali Al-Muairi, At-Thibbi, Abu Sholeh, and Ibn Abbas). Although its chain of narration is weak, the spiritual value and the spirit of worship are still encouraged.

The intention for the Tarwiyah fast is:

Nawaitu shauma at-tarwiyata sunnatan lillahi ta'ala (I intend to fast the sunnah of Tarwiyah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala). Observing this fast is a manifestation of our love for the worship that was recommended by the Prophet Muhammad SAW.

3. Arafah Fast: A Fast That Erases Two Years of Sins

One day before Eid al-Adha, which is the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah, is known as the Day of Arafah. This is the most significant time for fasting for Muslims who are not performing the Hajj. This fast has extraordinary merit, as it erases sins for two years.

In a authentic hadith it is mentioned: "The fast of Arafah can erase the sins of the past year and the coming year." (HR. Muslim). The special nature of the Day of Arafah is also described as the day when Allah frees the most of His servants from hell (HR. Muslim).

Intention for the fast of Arafah:

Nawaitu shauma arafata sunnatan lillahi ta'ala (I intend to fast on Arafah, for the sake of Allah the Almighty). It is highly recommended not to miss this fast, especially for those who are not performing Hajj.

4. Prohibition of Fasting on Eid al-Adha

After the fast of Arafah ends, Muslims celebrate the Eid al-Adha on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah. On this day, Islam prohibits fasting in any form, as it is a major holiday for Muslims marked by the act of sacrifice and the Eid prayer.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The days of Tashriq (11-13 Dhu al-Hijjah) are days of eating, drinking, and remembering Allah." (HR. Muslim). This signifies that joy and togetherness in welcoming Eid al-Adha are prioritized over fasting.

Therefore, Muslims are only encouraged to fast during the first nine days of Dhu al-Hijjah and to stop exactly when Eid al-Adha arrives. This moment can also be used to increase charity, takbir, and other acts of worship as a complement to the Sunnah fast that has been performed.

5. Popular Questions (PAA)

Is it permissible to fast only one day before Eid al-Adha?

Yes, fasting one day before Eid al-Adha is called the Arafah fast (9 Dzulhijjah) and is highly recommended for those who are not performing Hajj.

What are the virtues of the Arafah fast?

The Arafah fast can erase sins for two years: the past year and the coming year.

How many days of fasting before Eid al-Adha are recommended?

It is recommended to fast the first 9 days of the month of Dzulhijjah, starting from the 1st to the 9th of Dzulhijjah.

Does the intention for the Dzulhijjah fast need to be spoken?

The intention in the heart is sufficient, but it is sunnah to verbalize it for more conviction and to align with the sunnah.

(kpl/frr)