Hadith Text & Transmission

"The Messenger of Allah said: 'The one who fasts every day of his life has neither fasted, nor broken the fast."' 'Ata said: "someone who heard him told me that Ibn 'Umar (said) that the Prophet said: 'Whoever fasts every day of his life, then he has not fasted."

Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2377 | Book: The Book of Fasting | Author: Sunan an-Nasa'i

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith prohibits continuous fasting without break, emphasizing the balanced nature of Islamic worship. The phrase "has neither fasted" indicates such extreme practice invalidates the spiritual essence of fasting.

The Shari'ah has designated specific times for fasting and breaking fast. Continuous fasting contradicts the Prophetic practice and violates the rights of one's body and family.

Ibn 'Umar's narration reinforces this prohibition, showing the Companions' careful preservation of the Prophet's teachings against extremism in worship.

Legal Rulings

Scholars unanimously prohibit fasting continuously without breaking fast at night. The night is designated for breaking fast, and neglecting this violates the Sunnah.

Fasting every single day without observing the prohibited days (Eid, Tashreeq days) is forbidden as it disregards the Islamic calendar's sanctity.

The hadith teaches moderation - excessive worship beyond the Prophetic example leads to spiritual arrogance and physical exhaustion.

Spiritual Wisdom

True worship requires balance between spiritual duties and worldly responsibilities. Continuous fasting neglects family rights and social obligations.

The phrase "has not fasted" indicates such practice lacks proper intention and compliance with Shari'ah conditions, thus invalidating its reward.

This teaching protects the Muslim community from extremism and preserves the moderate path of Islam in all acts of worship.