The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2255

"I heard the Messenger of Allah say; 'It is not righteousness to fast when traveling."'

Textual Analysis

The hadith employs the phrase "laysa min al-birr" (it is not righteousness), indicating that fasting while traveling is not considered an act of piety or virtue in Islam.

This formulation suggests that such fasting may even be contrary to the spirit of Islamic law, as it goes against the concessions (rukhas) Allah has granted to travelers.

Legal Ruling (Hukm)

The majority of scholars consider fasting while traveling to be permissible but discouraged (makruh), based on this and similar narrations.

Some scholars from the Hanbali school consider it prohibited (haram) for one who experiences hardship, while the Malikis consider it reprehensible.

The traveler has the option to fast or break the fast, but breaking it is superior according to this prophetic guidance.

Wisdom Behind the Ruling

Allah desires ease for His servants and does not desire hardship for them. Travel inherently involves physical exertion and difficulty.

Fasting while traveling may weaken the traveler and prevent them from fulfilling the purpose of their journey or performing other religious duties.

This concession demonstrates the comprehensive mercy and practicality of Islamic legislation.

Conditions and Application

The ruling applies to travel that meets the Shari'ah conditions: approximately 48 miles or more, and the intention to travel that distance.

If the journey is short or does not involve significant hardship, some scholars permit fasting without dislike.

The traveler who breaks the fast must make up the missed days later, as commanded in Quran 2:184.