Hadith Prohibition

"The Messenger of Allah prohibited two fasts: Fasting the Day of Adha and the Day of Fitr."

Source Reference

Jami` at-Tirmidhi 772 - The Book on Fasting

Scholarly Commentary

This prohibition is established by consensus (ijmāʿ) of the Muslim scholars. The Day of Adha (Yawm al-Naḥr) is the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, while the Day of Fitr (Yawm al-Fiṭr) is the 1st of Shawwāl. Fasting on these days is forbidden (ḥarām) because they are days of celebration, eating, and drinking.

Imam al-Nawawi explains that these two days are designated for feasting and expressing gratitude to Allah. Fasting contradicts the very purpose of these celebrations. The prohibition applies even if one has missed Ramadan fasts, as making up missed fasts on these days remains impermissible.

Scholars emphasize that this prohibition is absolute and not subject to personal interpretation. The wisdom behind it is to maintain the distinctive character of Islamic festivals and to participate fully in the communal celebrations that Allah has prescribed for His servants.