Voluntary fasting is a highly recommended Sunnah that helps us draw closer to Allah and prepare spiritually and physically for Ramadan.
Certain days of the year are particularly recommended for fasting, especially Mondays and Thursdays, the White Days, and the 15th of Sha’ban. These days are mentioned in hadiths and carry great rewards.
In this article, we will explore the virtues of voluntary fasting and how to adopt it before Ramadan to gain its full benefits.
1. Why fast before Ramadan?
Voluntary fasting before Ramadan prepares the heart, body, and soul for the arrival of this blessed month.
“The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 185)
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of fasting outside Ramadan, especially just before its arrival.
The benefits of fasting before Ramadan
- Helps the body adjust to fasting, reducing fatigue in the first days.
- Increases good deeds and accumulates rewards.
- Spiritually purifies the soul and strengthens the relationship with Allah.
- Follows the Sunnah and imitates the Prophet ﷺ in his habits.
Voluntary fasting is a private act of worship, known only to the servant and Allah, and its reward is immense.
2. Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays: A prophetic habit
The Prophet ﷺ regularly fasted on Mondays and Thursdays and encouraged his followers to do the same.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Deeds are presented to Allah on Mondays and Thursdays, and I like my deeds to be presented while I am fasting.” (Reported by At-Tirmidhi and An-Nasa’i)
Why are these days so rewarding?
- Deeds are presented to Allah on these days.
- It is an established Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
- It purifies the soul and strengthens faith.
Tip: If you want to adopt this habit, start by fasting once a week, then gradually increase to both days.
3. Fasting the White Days: The 13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month
The Prophet ﷺ also encouraged fasting three days a month, especially on the White Days, which fall on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the lunar month.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Fasting three days of each month is equal to fasting for a lifetime.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Why are these days significant?
- Rewards are greatly multiplied.
- It is an easy Sunnah to follow.
- It helps maintain a regular fasting habit.
Fasting on these days before Ramadan is an excellent way to ease into the fasting routine.
4. Fasting on the 15th of Sha’ban: A unique opportunity
Sha’ban, the month before Ramadan, is a time for spiritual preparation.
Aisha رضي الله عنها said: “I did not see the Prophet ﷺ fasting in any month more than in Sha’ban.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
The 15th day of Sha’ban is particularly special because it is a night when Allah forgives many people.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Allah looks at His creation on the night of mid-Sha’ban and forgives all His servants except for the polytheist and the one who harbors hatred in his heart.” (Reported by Ibn Majah and authenticated by Al-Albani)
Why fast on the 15th of Sha’ban?
- It is a perfect preparation for Ramadan.
- Sins are forgiven, and Du’as are accepted.
- It is a Sunnah that brings one closer to Allah.
5. Avoid fasting after mid-Sha’ban without reason
While fasting in Sha’ban is encouraged, it is discouraged to fast in the second half of the month unless one has an established habit (such as fasting on Mondays and Thursdays).
The Prophet ﷺ said: “When the middle of Sha’ban arrives, do not fast until Ramadan.” (Reported by At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud, authenticated by Al-Albani)
Key takeaways:
- If you regularly fast on Mondays and Thursdays, you may continue.
- If you wish to start fasting late in Sha’ban, it is better to wait for Ramadan.
A crucial spiritual and physical preparation
Voluntary fasting before Ramadan is an immense opportunity to:
- Multiply rewards and increase good deeds.
- Train the body and mind for fasting.
- Draw closer to Allah and purify the soul.
By following the prophetic recommendations of fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, the White Days, and the 15th of Sha’ban, we can experience a more rewarding and beneficial Ramadan.