Hadith Text and Reference

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Three things do not break the fast of the fasting person: Cupping, vomiting, and the wet dream."

Source: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 719, The Book on Fasting

Meaning and Significance

This hadith clarifies three specific actions that do not invalidate the fast, providing important legal exceptions to the general rules of fasting. The Prophet ﷺ explicitly exempted these from nullifying one's fast to remove hardship and clarify misconceptions.

Scholarly Commentary on Cupping (Al-Hijamah)

Classical scholars explain that cupping involves drawing blood from the body's surface. Initially, there was disagreement about whether it breaks the fast, but this hadith establishes it does not. Scholars note this applies even though cupping may weaken the fasting person, as the Prophet ﷺ did not make weakness a criterion for breaking the fast.

Scholarly Commentary on Vomiting (Al-Qay')

The scholars distinguish between involuntary vomiting and intentional vomiting. This hadith refers to involuntary vomiting that occurs without one's choice or effort. If one deliberately induces vomiting, the majority of scholars hold that this breaks the fast, as it constitutes a voluntary action that brings substance from the stomach.

Scholarly Commentary on Wet Dream (Al-Ihtilam)

Scholars unanimously agree that nocturnal emission does not break the fast since it occurs involuntarily during sleep. This is consistent with the Islamic legal principle that one is not accountable for actions beyond their control. The person should perform ghusl (ritual bath) upon awakening and continue their fast.

Legal Implications and Wisdom

This hadith demonstrates the mercy and practicality of Islamic law by exempting involuntary actions from invalidating worship. It also shows the importance of seeking authentic knowledge, as people might otherwise assume these actions break the fast. The ruling preserves the spiritual state of the fasting person by removing unnecessary anxiety about accidental occurrences.