The Prophet (ﷺ) said that your Lord said, "Every (sinful) deed can be expiated; and the fast is for Me, so I will give the reward for it; and the smell which comes out of the mouth of a fasting person, is better in Allah's Sight than the smell of musk." (See Hadith No. 584)
Oneness, Uniqueness of Allah (Tawheed)
Sahih al-Bukhari 7538
Divine Proclamation Regarding Fasting
This sacred hadith qudsi establishes fasting as a uniquely divine act of worship. Allah Himself declares "the fast is for Me," distinguishing it from other acts of devotion. This exclusive attribution signifies fasting's special status, being free from ostentation since its reality is known only to Allah.
The Divine Reward System
Allah's statement "I will give the reward for it" indicates that He Himself, without intermediary, will recompense the fasting person. This contrasts with other deeds whose rewards are quantified, while fasting's reward transcends measure, being directly from the Divine Treasury of Generosity.
Spiritual Transformation Through Physical Abstinence
The hadith's remarkable declaration that the fasting person's mouth odor is superior to musk demonstrates how physical hardship transforms into spiritual fragrance. This symbolizes how worldly discomfort becomes celestial pleasure in Allah's estimation, elevating the believer's status through sincere devotion.
Expiatory Nature of Deeds
The opening statement "Every (sinful) deed can be expiated" establishes Allah's comprehensive mercy while highlighting fasting's particular excellence. Scholars note this contextualizes fasting within the broader framework of divine forgiveness while emphasizing its unique position in spiritual purification.