The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i

Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2149

Text of the Hadith

"Take Sahur, for in Sahur there is blessing."

Commentary by Imam an-Nasa'i

This noble hadith establishes the great virtue of taking the pre-dawn meal (Sahur) before fasting. The blessing (barakah) mentioned encompasses both spiritual and worldly benefits.

Spiritually, Sahur strengthens the fasting person for worship, enables them to perform the dawn prayer with congregation, and distinguishes the fast of Muslims from that of People of the Book who do not eat before dawn.

Worldly blessings include physical strength throughout the fasting day, increased energy for work and worship, and the acceptance of supplications during this blessed time when Allah descends to the lowest heaven.

Legal Ruling

While Sahur is highly recommended (mustahabb), it is not obligatory. The minimum that fulfills this practice is consuming even a small amount of food or drink. The wisdom lies in following the Sunnah and gaining strength for worship.

Timing of Sahur

The preferred time for Sahur is during the last portion of the night, close to the dawn prayer. It is permissible to eat until the true dawn appears - the horizontal light spreading across the horizon, not the vertical light that appears earlier.