"I witnessed Umar bin Al-Khattab on the Day of Nahr beginning with the Salat before the Khutbah. Then he said: 'I heard the Messenger of Allah prohibit fasting on these two days. As for the Day of Fitr, then it is for you to take a break from your fasting, and a celebration for the Muslims. As for the Day of Adha, then eat from the flesh that you have sacrificed.'"
The Book on Fasting - Jami' at-Tirmidhi
Hadith Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 771
Textual Analysis
This narration from Sayyiduna Umar ibn al-Khattab establishes two important prohibitions in Islamic law: fasting on Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The Prophet's prohibition is transmitted through the authoritative chain of Umar's testimony.
The wisdom behind this prohibition lies in these days being designated as days of celebration, gratitude, and feasting for the Muslim community, contrary to the state of fasting.
Legal Ruling (Hukm)
The consensus of scholars holds that fasting on these two Eid days is strictly forbidden (haram). This ruling applies regardless of whether one is fulfilling an obligatory fast (like Ramadan) or a voluntary fast.
The prohibition is emphasized by Umar's public declaration during the Eid prayer, indicating its fundamental importance in Islamic practice.
Wisdom and Benefits
Eid al-Fitr marks the completion of Ramadan's spiritual journey, where breaking fast becomes an act of worship itself, demonstrating gratitude for divine guidance.
Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice, where consuming from one's sacrifice symbolizes acceptance of divine commands and sharing blessings with the community.
Both Eids strengthen communal bonds through shared meals and collective worship, purposes that would be undermined by individual fasting.
Historical Context
Umar's mention of the prayer preceding the sermon reflects the established sunnah of Eid prayer sequence, which differs from the Friday prayer where the khutbah comes first.
His public proclamation served to educate the community and preserve the Prophetic tradition at a time when Islamic practices were being standardized across the expanding Muslim lands.