Hadith Text and Reference

"It is not righteousness to fast when traveling. Take to the concession which Allah, the mighty and sublime, has granted you, accept it." (Sunan an-Nasa'i 2260)

Context and Meaning

This hadith from The Book of Fasting in Sunan an-Nasa'i addresses the permissibility of breaking the fast while traveling. The Prophet (peace be upon him) clarifies that righteousness is not achieved by insisting on fasting during journeys.

The phrase "take to the concession" refers to the divine permission (rukhṣah) granted by Allah for travelers to break their fast and make up the missed days later. This demonstrates Islam's balanced approach to worship, considering human circumstances.

Legal Ruling (Fiqh)

According to classical scholars, while fasting while traveling is technically valid, it is recommended to break the fast and utilize Allah's concession. The hadith indicates that insisting on fasting when the concession is available may reflect misunderstanding of true piety.

The majority of scholars hold that breaking the fast is preferable (afḍal) for travelers, though fasting remains permissible if no hardship is involved.

Spiritual Wisdom

This teaching emphasizes that true righteousness lies in following Allah's commands and concessions, not in imposing unnecessary hardship upon oneself. Accepting divine concessions demonstrates gratitude and submission to Allah's wisdom.

The hadith teaches Muslims to avoid extremism in worship and to embrace the balanced path (wasatiyyah) that characterizes Islamic law.