The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2236

"For those who fast there is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Rayyan, through which no one but they will enter. When the last of them has entered it, it will be closed. Whoever enters through it will drink, and whoever drinks will never thirst again."

Commentary on the Excellence of Fasting

This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes the immense reward reserved exclusively for those who observe fasting for the sake of Allah. The gate named "Ar-Rayyan" - derived from the root meaning "quenched" or "satiated" - signifies the complete spiritual fulfillment awaiting the fasting believers.

The exclusivity of this entrance demonstrates the special status of fasting in Islamic worship, as it is a hidden act between the servant and his Lord. The closing of the gate after the last fasting person enters indicates the finite nature of this blessed opportunity, urging believers to hasten in performing this righteous deed.

Scholarly Interpretation

Classical scholars explain that the drinking mentioned symbolizes eternal satisfaction and delight in Paradise. Just as the fasting person abstains from worldly pleasures during daylight hours, they will be eternally compensated with divine pleasures that eliminate all spiritual and physical thirst.

Imam an-Nawawi comments that this hadith encourages consistency in fasting and emphasizes that the reward is proportional to the difficulty of the worship. The perpetual quenching represents the ultimate success - freedom from all worldly needs and eternal contentment in the divine presence.

Spiritual Significance

This promise serves as immense motivation for believers to perfect their fasting, observing both its outward requirements and inward essence - guarding one's tongue, limbs, and intentions. The gate of Rayyan stands as a eternal testament to those who mastered self-restraint for Allah's pleasure.