The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Raiyan, and those who observe fasts will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, 'Where are those who used to observe fasts?' They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it."
Exposition of the Hadith on the Gate of Ar-Raiyan
This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (1896) concerning the book of Fasting reveals profound spiritual realities about the reward for those who faithfully observe the obligatory and recommended fasts in Islam.
The Special Honor for the Fasting People
The Prophet (ﷺ) informs us of a gate in Paradise exclusively designated for those who fasted. This exclusive entrance signifies the special status and honor Allah grants to those who abstained from lawful desires for His sake.
The name "Ar-Raiyan" linguistically relates to saturation and quenching of thirst, indicating that those who endured thirst and hunger in this world will be fully satisfied and quenched in the Hereafter.
The Call and Exclusive Entry
On the Day of Resurrection, when the call is made specifically for those who fasted, they will rise and enter through this gate alone. This public recognition before all creation demonstrates the honor Allah bestows upon His fasting servants.
The subsequent closure of the gate after their entry emphasizes the exclusivity of this honor - no other group of worshippers will share this particular entrance, making it unique to the people of fasting.
Spiritual Implications
This hadith serves as immense encouragement for Muslims to persevere in fasting, knowing that their temporary deprivation in this world leads to eternal honor and distinction in the Hereafter.
The scholars explain that this honor encompasses both those who observed obligatory fasts of Ramadan and those who additionally observed recommended fasts, with the level of honor corresponding to the quantity and quality of one's fasting.