The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2410

"I heard the Messenger of Allah say: 'Whoever fasts three days of each month has fasted the month in full' or 'will have (the reward of) fasting the month.'" 'Asim was in doubt.

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i demonstrates the immense mercy of Allah upon His servants. The Prophet (peace be upon him) informs us that fasting three days each month earns the reward of fasting an entire month. This is based on the principle that every good deed is multiplied tenfold, as established in Quranic teachings.

The three days are preferably the "white days" - the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month - though any three days suffice. The narrator's doubt regarding the exact wording does not affect the meaning, as both expressions indicate the great reward for this voluntary worship.

This practice combines ease with great spiritual benefit, making continuous worship accessible to all believers regardless of their circumstances. It maintains the connection with fasting throughout the year and purifies the soul regularly.

Legal Ruling & Benefits

This fasting is considered Sunnah Mu'akkadah (emphasized tradition) according to most scholars. The wisdom behind specifying three days includes: maintaining regular devotion, cleansing accumulated sins, disciplining the nafs (self), and following the Prophet's example.

Ibn Abbas reported that the Messenger of Allah never failed to fast the white days whether traveling or resident. This continuous practice demonstrates its importance in the Islamic tradition.