Al Bara’ (bin Azib) said “When a man fasted and slept, he could not eat till (another nigh) like it.” Sarmah bin Qais Al Ansari came to his wife while he was fasting and asked her Do you have something (to eat)? She replied “No”. Let me go and seek something for you. So, she went out and sleep overcame him. She came (back) and said (to him).You are deprived (of food). He fainted before noon. He used to work all day long at his land. This was mentioned to the Prophet (ﷺ). So the following verse was revealed. “Permitted to you on the nights of the fasts, is the approach to your wives. They are your garments and ye are their garments. Allah knoweth what yes used to do secretly amongst yourselves. But he turned to you and forgave you. So now associate with them and seek what Allaah hath ordained for you. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn appears to you. He recited up to the words “of dawn”.
Historical Context of the Revelation
This narration from Sunan Abi Dawud 2314 in the Book of Fasting (Kitab Al-Siyam) recounts the circumstances preceding the revelation of Quran 2:187. The initial understanding among early Muslims was that once a fasting person slept at night, they could no longer eat or drink until the following night, creating hardship for those who worked long hours.
Scholarly Commentary on the Incident
Sarmah bin Qais's experience demonstrates the practical difficulties of the original ruling. His fainting from exhaustion while working his land illustrates why Allah in His mercy eased this restriction.
The verse's revelation shows Islam's principle of removing hardship while maintaining worship's essence. The permission to eat, drink, and have marital relations throughout the night until dawn's white thread appears represents divine compassion.
Legal Implications and Wisdom
This abrogation established the clear timeframe for fasting: from dawn (fajr) to sunset (maghrib). The "white thread of dawn" metaphor provides a visual criterion for determining when fasting begins.
Scholars note this incident exemplifies how Islamic law responds to human needs while preserving worship's spiritual objectives. The gradual legislation allowed the community to strengthen their faith before receiving concessions.
Spiritual Lessons
This revelation teaches that Allah knows the struggles of His servants and legislates accordingly. The initial strictness cultivated self-discipline, while the subsequent ease demonstrated divine mercy.
The incident reminds believers that Islamic rulings consider both spiritual development and physical capability, balancing worship with practical life necessities.