In Islam, some days are considered more important as compared to others because of their high spiritual values. They are golden opportunities for Muslims to strengthen their bond with Allah. Muslims are encouraged to follow Sunnah and fast during this time. These are named as 'White Days'. Apart from sustaining you from food, drinks and worldly pleasures, this fasting offers you a lot of spiritual and physical benefits as well.
Want to know more about the importance of white days in Islam? Keep reading this blog…
What Are White Days in Islam?
White days are referred to the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month. They are named 'White days' because the moon shines to its fullest throughout the mentioned dates, and nights are relatively brighter. It is also said that Allah forgave Adam in these days. The Prophet (SAW) encourages Muslims to fast these days and perform extra Rakat in Duha prayer, as well as Witr, before going to bed. Worshiping these days is the best way to thank Allah for brightening the dark nights.
What Do Different Islamic Scholars Say About White Days?
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Now that you have learned what the three white days in Islam are, let us see what different Islamic scholars say about them:
1. The Sheikh of the scholars of Algeria, Muhammad Sharif – may Allah have mercy on him – said about the white days: "It is the Gharar of every month." It means he has related these days with the whiteness in the forehead of the horse because nights are similar in whiteness to the days.
2. Ibn Abbas – may Allah be pleased with him – said that it was the custom of God's messenger not to eat on the white days of the month, whether traveling or not. Narrated by Al-Nasa'i.
3. On the authority of Hafsa, she said: "There are four things which the Prophet never gave up: Fasting Ashura, (fasting during) the ten days, (fasting) three days of each month, and praying two Rak'ahs before Al-Ghadah (Fajr)." Narrated by Imam Ahmad.
4. Sheikh Ibn Baz, may Allah have mercy on him, said: The white days are: the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth, these are the white days, meaning: whose night is white with the moon, and its day is white with the sun, its fasting is recommended, and if one fasts other days, there is nothing wrong.
Importance of Fasting White Days in light of Hadiths
Many Hadiths also state the virtues of fasting. We have compiled these hadiths below:
1. [Allah says:] "Fasting is Mine, and it is I Who gives reward for it". (Al-Bukhari, Fath, no. 1904)
2. "The supplication (du'a) of the fasting person will not be refused". (Reported by al-Bayhaqi, 3/345; see also al-Silsilah al-Sahihah, 1797)
3. "There is nothing equivalent to fasting". (Al-Nasai, 4/165; see also Sahih al-Targhib, 1/413)
4. "Fasting is a protection and a strong fortress against the Fire". (Reported by Ahmad, 2/402; see also Sahih al-Targhib, 1/411 and Sahih al-Jami', 3880)
5. "Whoever fasts a day seeking the pleasure of Allah and then dies [i.e., that is the last thing he does] will enter Paradise". (Reported by Ahmad, 5/391; see also Sahih al-Targhib, 1/412)
6. "Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allah, Allah will keep his face seventy years away from the Fire because of it". (Reported by Muslim, 2/808)
7. "In Paradise, there is a gate called al-Rayyan, through which those who fast will enter, and no one else will enter through it. After they have entered, it will be locked, and no one else will enter it". (Al-Bukhari, Fath, no. 1797).
What Are the Benefits of White Days Fast?
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In addition to getting immense rewards from Allah, there are a lot of physical and moral benefits, as well as fasting on white days. Let us throw light on them:
Health Benefits
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Detoxification: Fasting for 3 white days in Islam helps your body eliminate toxins and promotes overall health.
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Improved Metabolism: Fasting these days improves your insulin sensitivity and improves your metabolism.
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Promote Heart Health: It also lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure, enhancing cardiovascular health.
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Weight Management: Fasting reduces calorie intake and helps you manage weight.
Spiritual Benefits
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Spiritual Growth: Fasting for three consecutive days a month increases self-control and discipline, fostering spiritual growth.
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Gratitude: It reminds you to appreciate all the blessings of Allah in daily life, promoting a sense of gratitude.
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Empathy: Extreme hunger and thirst create empathy for those who are less fortunate, highlighting your social responsibilities.
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Submission to Allah: As fasting on white days is for the sake of Allah, it demonstrates our submission to his will.
Conclusion
To summarize, white days in Islam are not only dates on the calendar. They are an opportunity for all Muslims to renew their spirits and moral reflection. By following the Sunnah of fasting on these days, you can reconnect with your faith and benefit your physical health as well. So, let's embrace this holistic approach and turn every moment into a chance for self-improvement and connection to Allah.
To learn more about the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW), you can get authentic books from our online bookstore - Dar-us-Salam Publications.
FAQS
Is fasting on white days mandatory?
No, it is not mandatory but is recommended in the Sunnah of our Holy Prophet (SAW). This is a voluntary act of worship.
How to encourage our family and friends to fast on white days?
You can share your knowledge about the benefits and virtues of fasting in white days and motivate them to join you in this precious act of worship.