The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2226

"The Messenger of Allah said: 'Fasting is a shield.'"

Commentary by Imam an-Nawawi

This noble hadith establishes that fasting serves as a protective barrier for the believer. The shield metaphor indicates fasting protects from two primary harms: the punishment of the Hereafter and the temptations of this worldly life.

Scholars explain that fasting is a shield against Hellfire, as it prevents one from indulging in sinful desires and acts of disobedience that lead to divine punishment. It also protects the physical body by moderating desires and promoting health.

Legal Rulings and Benefits

The shield function operates in multiple dimensions: it protects from vain speech and foul language, as the fasting person is commanded to guard their tongue; it protects from lustful glances and inappropriate relationships; and it cultivates taqwa (God-consciousness) in the heart.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes that just as a physical shield requires proper handling to be effective, so too must fasting be performed with proper intention, following the Sunnah, and avoiding backbiting, lying, and other invalidators of its spiritual reward.