While fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for every able Muslim, the Sunnah of fasting on Mondays and Thursdays holds significant spiritual benefits. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) consistently practiced fasting on these days. But why these specific days, and how can we fully embrace this weekly Sunnah?
‘Aishah (RA) narrated: “The Messenger of Allah was keen to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.”
— Sunan an-Nasa’i 2364
A Weekday Devotion: Fasting Monday and Thursday
Do you ever feel the Monday blues? Transform your Mondays into a spiritual journey by dedicating them to fasting and devotion to Allah (SWT). This silent expression of gratitude can purify your soul at the start of the week.
Thursdays are equally significant, as the Prophet (SAW) highlighted the importance of fasting on these days:
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated: “The Prophet (SAW) used to fast on Mondays and Thursdays. When asked why, he replied: ‘On Mondays and Thursdays Allah forgives every Muslim except those who have forsaken one another. He says: ‘Leave these two until they reconcile.’”
— Sunan Ibn Majah 1740
Beyond Mere Abstinence
Fasting is more than just abstaining from food and drink; it is an act of worship deeply rooted in intention. To maximize the benefits of this form of worship, focus on:
- Deepening the Connection with Allah (SWT): Read Quran with Tajweed, engage in extra prayers, memorize Quran, and increase dhikr. Let hunger pangs remind you of your dependence on Allah’s (SWT) sustenance.
- Self-Reflection and Improvement: Be mindful of your thoughts and actions. Practice patience and strive to improve your character.
- Empathy and Social Responsibility: Share Iftar with loved ones and give to those in need. Fasting should foster compassion and connection, not isolation.
Making it a Habit
Consistency is key to making fasting on Mondays and Thursdays a regular practice. Start with one day and gradually add the other. As you become accustomed to fasting, you will look forward to the spiritual benefits and the sweetness of faith (eeman) it brings.
Unlocking the Rewards
Regularly fasting on Mondays and Thursdays brings immense rewards:
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated: “The Messenger of Allah said: ‘Deeds are presented on Mondays and Thursdays, and I love that my deeds are presented while I am fasting.'”
— Jami` at-Tirmidhi 747
Embrace and Preserve the Fast
Abu ‘Ubaidah (RA) said: “I heard the Messenger of Allah say: ‘Fasting is a shield, as long as you do not damage it.'”
— Sunan an-Nasa’i 2233
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated: “The Prophet (SAW) said: ‘Fasting is a shield; when one of you is fasting, he should neither behave obscenely nor foolishly. If someone fights or abuses him, he should say: I am fasting, I am fasting.'”
— Sunan Abi Dawud 2363
Let Fasting Transform You
Beyond merely giving up food and drink, let fasting be a transformational journey that improves your character. Preserve the fast as though you are protecting it from the challenges of daily life and let it nourish your soul. May Allah (SWT) make us steadfast in this Sunnah.
Sahl bin Sad (RA) narrated: “The Prophet (SAW) said: ‘For those who fast, there is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Rayyan, through which no one but they will enter. When the last of them has entered, it will be closed. Whoever enters through it will drink, and whoever drinks will never thirst again.'”
— Sunan an-Nasa’i 2236
By embracing the Sunnah of fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, you can deepen your spiritual practice and draw closer to Allah (SWT).