"We were with the Messenger of Allah and we passed by a man. They said: 'O Prophet of Allah, this man has not broken his fast for such and such a time.' He said: 'He has neither fasted nor broken his 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."
The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2382
This narration from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) contains profound wisdom regarding the proper observance of fasting. The man mentioned was engaging in continuous fasting without breaks, which the Prophet declared invalid. This demonstrates that Islam emphasizes moderation and balance in worship.
Scholarly Commentary
The statement "he has neither fasted nor broken his fast" indicates that such extreme continuous fasting is not recognized as valid worship in Islam. The Prophet's declaration serves to correct misunderstanding about proper devotional practice.
Ibn 'Umar's additional narration clarifies further: "Whoever fasts every day of his life, then he has not fasted." This emphasizes that perpetual fasting contradicts the Islamic principle of moderation and violates the sanctity of prescribed fasting days.
Legal Ruling (Fiqh)
Scholars unanimously agree that continuous fasting without observing the days when fasting is prohibited (Eid days, days of Tashreeq) is impermissible. The Shari'ah has designated specific times for fasting and specific times for breaking fast.
This hadith establishes that proper Islamic fasting must follow the divinely prescribed timetable and maintains balance between spiritual devotion and physical needs.