.
Showing posts with label Fasting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fasting. Show all posts

Monday 25 March 2024

Fasting in Ramadan: A chance to reformat our sinful memory (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Man has always been susceptible to the enticement of the Satan to commit sin, harm others and become arrogant of one's achievements rather than attributing them to Allah. The pleasure of committing is so intense that even the most pious sometimes fall into the Satanic trap, only to be left with shame, sorrow and regret.

Cognizant of man's weakness to give into the Satanic machination, Allah provides fasting specially in the month of Ramadan, or even otherwise throughout the year for the man to come clean out of his sinful past or acts and reformat his dark memory. Fasting, thus of done with complete and sincere faith faith in Allah can help us out from continuing to live with our bad or dark memory.

The hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ being shared today carries this glad tidings for the believers for a chance to reformat their bad memory. This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 - Fasting /  كتاب الصوم / Chapter 6:  Whoever observed fast in Ramadan out of sincere Faith with honest intention / باب مَنْ صَامَ رَمَضَانَ إِيمَانًا وَاحْتِسَابًا وَنِيَّةً نَاسِيًا) as Hadith 1901, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:


The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever established prayers on the night of Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven; and whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven."

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا مُسْلِمُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، حَدَّثَنَا هِشَامٌ، حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى، عَنْ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ مَنْ قَامَ لَيْلَةَ الْقَدْرِ إِيمَانًا وَاحْتِسَابًا غُفِرَ لَهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِنْ ذَنْبِهِ، وَمَنْ صَامَ رَمَضَانَ إِيمَانًا وَاحْتِسَابًا غُفِرَ لَهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِنْ ذَنْبِهِ ‏"‏‏.‏

Let us, in the light of the above quoted Hadith, make our fasting a way out of our darker past and reformat our part of the memory, that contains terabytes of porn stuff, sins, mistakes and actions that harmed others for the sake of taking self benefits, and start over yet again afresh never to commit sins again. In sha Allah!
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Wednesday 20 March 2024

Ramadan: Eating forgetfully does not Invalidate the Fast (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Ramadan is a month of enforcing self discipline on self and refrain from eating and drinking and many other  aspects as have already mentioned in number of our earlier posts. Today we take a very important aspect of fasting which often misinterpreted by many. This is regarding eating and drinking forgetfully and when one realizes that he has violated the basics of fasting, he is confused and does not know what to do.

We share a hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which clarifies the issue and makes things very clear. This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 - Fasting /  كتاب الصوم / Chapter 26:  If a person observing Saum ate or drank forgetfully / باب الصَّائِمِ إِذَا أَكَلَ أَوْ شَرِبَ نَاسِيًا) as Hadith 1993, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "If somebody eats or drinks forgetfully then he should complete his fast, for what he has eaten or drunk, has been given to him by Allah."

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدَانُ، أَخْبَرَنَا يَزِيدُ بْنُ زُرَيْعٍ، حَدَّثَنَا هِشَامٌ، حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ سِيرِينَ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ إِذَا نَسِيَ فَأَكَلَ وَشَرِبَ فَلْيُتِمَّ صَوْمَهُ، فَإِنَّمَا أَطْعَمَهُ اللَّهُ وَسَقَاهُ ‏"‏‏.‏

In the light of the above quoted hadith, if a man eats or drinks forgetfully and then realizes that he has been fasting, he should not worry and carry on with the fasting and open fast at Iftar time as usual. This also applies to all acts that are otherwise restricted or not allowed while fasting. He should then seek forgiveness while repenting is forgetful act. Allah in all His mercy will forgive him. In sha Allah
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Sunday 17 March 2024

Ramadan: Fasting is a shield (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The month of Ramadan assumes special significance for the Muslims for fasting during the month is one of the most pleasing acts of a believer in the eyes of Allah. It is a month full of blessings of Allah for His servants. Any good act during this month has far more rewarding than the months other than the Ramadan.

It is the month in which the fast acts as a deterrent for the evil to come close to the fasting men and women. For this very reason Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called fasting as a shield for the fasting men. 

I first heard this Hadith in my childhood and since then it is ingrained in my memory. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 - Fasting /  كتاب االصوم / Chapter 2:  The superiority of As-Saum (the fasting) / باب فَضْلِ الصَّوْمِ) as Hadith 1894, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Fasting is a shield (or a screen or a shelter). So, the person observing fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, 'I am fasting." The Prophet (ﷺ) added, "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. (Allah says about the fasting person), 'He has left his food, drink and desires for My sake. The fast is for Me. So I will reward (the fasting person) for it and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times."

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ مَسْلَمَةَ، عَنْ مَالِكٍ، عَنْ أَبِي الزِّنَادِ، عَنِ الأَعْرَجِ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ الصِّيَامُ جُنَّةٌ، فَلاَ يَرْفُثْ وَلاَ يَجْهَلْ، وَإِنِ امْرُؤٌ قَاتَلَهُ أَوْ شَاتَمَهُ فَلْيَقُلْ إِنِّي صَائِمٌ‏.‏ مَرَّتَيْنِ، وَالَّذِي نَفْسِي بِيَدِهِ لَخُلُوفُ فَمِ الصَّائِمِ أَطْيَبُ عِنْدَ اللَّهِ تَعَالَى مِنْ رِيحِ الْمِسْكِ، يَتْرُكُ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ وَشَهْوَتَهُ مِنْ أَجْلِي، الصِّيَامُ لِي، وَأَنَا أَجْزِي بِهِ، وَالْحَسَنَةُ بِعَشْرِ أَمْثَالِهَا ‏"‏‏.‏

As we know a shield is protective gear for the soldiers which is used to shield / protect oneself from the incoming arrows or lances or even bullets. This is the artful use of the shield by which a soldier can protect himself from any harm to him. Likewise, fast or saum has been referred to as shield or screen by the revered Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which means that a fasting man must use his fast as a shield against all attempts of the evil which may invalidate his saum. Thus, the fasting must guard his fast by adopting a good attitude and avoiding a bad one, so that fasting will produce the expected results and thus he will earn the forgiveness that is promised in return. 
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Saturday 16 March 2024

Responding to Objections about Islam: Why Muslims starve themselves by during month of Ramadan?

There is general ignorance and resultant misconception about Islam, its basic pillars, form of worship, rituals and festivals among the non Muslims around the world. Thus most of the objections raised against Islam are generally because of ignorance and insuffient knowledge. We have been trying to address these objections, misinformation and disinformation, beside naked criticism about Islam in our series of posts, which have been combined in our reference page: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam.

Today we share an objection which basically stems from the ignorance of one's own faith for many even do not know what their faith directs and expects of them. And one of the objection is about fasting by Muslims in the month of Ramadan. In one of many posts on Ramadan, one non Muslim objected: Why Muslims starve themselves by during month of Ramadan?

We start answering this question from a verse from Qur'an in which its is said that fasting is made obligatory to all Muslims as was made for the previous people:

O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may develop God-consciousness. — Quran 2:183

The first thing that we make it clear that fasting is not exclusive to Muslims only. In fact fasting has been observed by the Jews and Christians as ordained by the Holy Scriptures they follow. It is another thing that by and by Jews and Christians (mostly) have distanced them from the teachings of their Holy Books and drifted away from the obligation made upon them of fasting. Muslims have firm faith that when they fast, they fast exclusively to please Allah, and in return Allah has promised special rewards for them for they have abstained all pleasures otherwise Halal for them for sake of Allah.

Let us see how fasting is observed by the Jews and Christians, traditionally and not practically as very few adhere to fasting being a Divine obligation:

Fasting in Judaism: There are six days in a year when observant Jews fast. Two “Major Fasts” call for a fast from sundown on the day before to sundown on the day itself, and four “Minor Fasts” call for a fast from sunrise to sundown. Jews have many fast days, most famously Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Unlike the days of Ramadan, that is a full-day fast, from sunset one evening before to nightfall the following evening. Fasting in Judaism requires a strong commitment. While some contemporary fasts may involve choosing specific items to abstain from, traditional Jewish fasting entails refraining from everything. It goes beyond abstaining from food and includes restrictions on water consumption, extending to activities like brushing teeth and bathing.

Fasting by Christians: Fasting is a practice in several Christian denominations and is done both collectively during certain seasons of the liturgical calendar, or individually as a believer feels led by the Holy Spirit. Many Christians also fast before receiving Holy Communion. This is known as the Eucharistic Fast. The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, written in the first century A.D., directed Christians to fast on both Wednesdays, in remembrance of the betrayal of Christ by Judas on Spy Wednesday, and Fridays, in mourning of the crucifixion of Jesus on Good Friday.[17] Historically, the Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican and Methodist denominations of Christianity have emphasized the importance of the Friday fast, which has traditionally involved fasting and abstinence from meat, lacticinia and alcohol. In Western Christianity, fasting is observed during the forty-day season of Lent by many communicants of the Catholic Church, Lutheran Churches, Anglican Communion, Moravian Church, Methodist Churches, Western Orthodox Churches, United Protestant Churches and certain Reformed Churches, to commemorate the fast observed by Christ during his temptation in the desert.

Therefore, it should not come as a surprise for people of other faiths why Muslims "starve" themselves during the month of Ramadan. In fact fasting has many health benefits, And for this very reason, the concept of intermittent fasting is getting popular around the world.  Besides it is regarded principally as a method of self purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life.
  • The first object of fasting in Islam is that it has been Divinely ordained for us to fast, for the sole pleasure of our Creator. We leave what is otherwise Halal for us during the period of fasting, that commences from pre-dawn to sunset. 
  • Secondly, fasting is prescribed only for the able bodied, adult and healthy men and women. Even there are concessions given for the travelers to abstain from fasting and make up for the missed fasts during travel when back from journey.
    • (Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will,- it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if ye only knew. - Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow):184
    • Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful. - Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow):185
    • In one of his Hadiths, Allah's Messenger Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "Allah said, 'All the deeds of Adam's sons (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.' Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarreling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am fasting.' By Him in Whose Hands my soul is' The unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting." - Sahi al-Bukhārī Hadith 1904
  • The fasting also creates a feeling of affection and love for people who are less blessed, for both the rich and poor feel the same amount of thirst and hunger when they are fasting.
  • Since Islamic calendar is based on lunar movement rather than sun, the month of Ramadan keeps advancing by ten days every year. This means one will be fasting in severe winters to severe summers and men fasting would know how the poor brave their fasts during the extreme weather, specially the summers.
No matter how one fasts, it has numerous health, spiritual and social benefits. 

Spiritually, it cleans one inner self and removes the bugs left behind evil and ill thoughts. The spiritual discipline that can help you draw closer to God, humble yourself before Him, resist temptation, seek His guidance, and show solidarity with others. By fasting and praying, you can grow in our relationship with God and become more obedient to His will.

Fasting has pleasant effects of one's health and body.  It can can slow down aging, prevent the development of diabetes, thyroid disorders, hypertension and heart disease and increase the chances of a long and healthy life. It also promotes weight loss. A healthy body weight automatically translates to healthier joints and a great body image. The concept of intermittent fasting which has lately become very popular and is widely adopted is based on the fasting which is applicable to people of the varying faiths.

Fasting also has its social dimension. Since the basic purpose of fasting is to discipline oneself, A fasting man is not allowed to use foul language and be harsh to others for it is against the spirit of fasting. It aids in preventing quarrels, backbiting and lies and fighting. This sudden change can have healthy effects on the society for everyone would be making an endeavour to be good to others to take full benefits of fasting as promised by Allah.

You may like to listen to eminent Muslim scholar of present times, Nouman Ali Khan, giving a short introductory talk on why should we fast:


Thus, Fasting is not merely starving oneself, but is primarily an exercise of devotion to willingly renounce oneself, for a definite period of time, from all bodily appetites in order to form spiritual discipline and self-control.  And Muslims with for this month of 30 days fasting to observe fasting to please Allah and be rewarded.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may read more posts on countering / responding to lies / misinformation and disinformation about Islam: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam (Reference Page)

You may also refer to our reference pages for knowing more about Ramadan and fasting:
Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

Photo | Resource References: | Wikipedia |

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Tuesday 12 March 2024

Ramadan: Whose fasting will not be accepted by Allah (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is an act that a believer undertakes to please Allah and none else. It is ant in which a person observing the fast (Saum) makes things Haram (forbidden) on him which are otherwise Halal (Allowed) for him. These may include abstaining from eating and even spousal intimate relations. Since fasting is an act of self discipline, a man must guard his thoughts, tongue and physical actions for this may invalidate fasting and even render his fasting unaccepted by Allah.

In one of his hadiths, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentioned two acts of a person which direct towards unacceptability of his fact by Allah. This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 - Fasting /  كتاب االصوم / Chapter 8:  Whoever does not give up lying speech while observing Saum / باب مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فِي الصَّوْمِ) as Hadith 1903, given herein under:

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting.)"

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا آدَمُ بْنُ أَبِي إِيَاسٍ، حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ أَبِي ذِئْبٍ، حَدَّثَنَا سَعِيدٌ الْمَقْبُرِيُّ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فَلَيْسَ لِلَّهِ حَاجَةٌ فِي أَنْ يَدَعَ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ ‏"‏

If despite keeping fast, a man does not harness his tongue and continue use abusive language and uttering words that may hurt others, this would mean that that person has not understood the spirit of fasting and Allah does not want fasting of such a violator for one fasts only to please Allah. Likewise indulging into evil acts which are tangent to teachings of Islam will also render his fast unacceptable by Allah.

It must be remembered that one must spiritually clean oneself by fasting. Abstaining from food and drinks is no big deal for it can be done even otherwise as people do intermittent fasting these days. Fasting is an act directly between a man and Allah for a man does fasting for Allah alone. And definitely foul language and evil deeds are acts of Satan, unacceptable to Allah. So why should we render our fasts unacceptable by Allah by going against the Divine Commandments of spiritual cleanliness and guarding against acts that hurt others.

You may like to listen to Sheikh Assim Al Hakeem explaining the above referred Hadith:
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Sunday 25 June 2023

Fasting on Day of Arafah: Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

The Day of Arafah " يوم عرفة " is the day that falls on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah of the lunar Islamic Calendar. It is the day when all pilgrims present in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, gather together around Mount Arafat in the Plain of Arafat. It was from this site that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave his famous last sermon. It was the day when Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentioned the verse of Qur'an in which Allah proclaimed that the religion of Islam had finally been completed.

The verse known as ikmal al-din (إِکْمَال الدِّيْن) is the 3rd verse of Surah 5 Al Maida of the Quran, the central religious text in Islam. 
حُرِّمَتۡ عَلَيۡكُمُ الۡمَيۡتَةُ وَالدَّمُ وَلَحۡمُ الۡخِنۡزِيۡرِ وَمَاۤ اُهِلَّ لِغَيۡرِ اللّٰهِ بِهٖ وَالۡمُنۡخَنِقَةُ وَالۡمَوۡقُوۡذَةُ وَالۡمُتَرَدِّيَةُ وَالنَّطِيۡحَةُ وَمَاۤ اَكَلَ السَّبُعُ اِلَّا مَا ذَكَّيۡتُمۡ وَمَا ذُ بِحَ عَلَى النُّصُبِ وَاَنۡ تَسۡتَقۡسِمُوۡا بِالۡاَزۡلَامِ​ ؕ ذٰ لِكُمۡ فِسۡقٌ​ ؕ اَلۡيَوۡمَ يَـئِسَ الَّذِيۡنَ كَفَرُوۡا مِنۡ دِيۡـنِكُمۡ فَلَا تَخۡشَوۡهُمۡ وَاخۡشَوۡنِ​ ؕ اَ لۡيَوۡمَ اَكۡمَلۡتُ لَـكُمۡ دِيۡنَكُمۡ وَاَ تۡمَمۡتُ عَلَيۡكُمۡ نِعۡمَتِىۡ وَرَضِيۡتُ لَـكُمُ الۡاِسۡلَامَ دِيۡنًا​ ؕ فَمَنِ اضۡطُرَّ فِىۡ مَخۡمَصَةٍ غَيۡرَ مُتَجَانِفٍ لِّاِثۡمٍ​ۙ فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ غَفُوۡرٌ رَّحِيۡمٌ‏‏ 
(5:3) Forbidden to you are carrion, blood, the flesh of swine, the animal slaughtered in any name other than Allah's, the animal which has either been strangled, killed by blows, has died of a fall, by goring or that devoured by a beast of prey - unless it be that which you yourselves might have slaughtered while it was still alive - and that which was slaughtered at the altars. You are also forbidden to seek knowledge of your fate by divining arrows. All these are sinful acts. This day the unbelievers have fully despaired of your religion. Do not fear them; but fear Me. This day I have perfected for you your religion, and have bestowed upon you My bounty in full measure, and have been pleased to assign for you Islam as your religion. (Follow, then, the lawful and unlawful bounds enjoined upon you.)16 As for he who is driven by hunger, without being willfully inclined to sin, surely Allah is All-Forgiving, All-Compassionate.
Owing to the sanctity and importance of this day, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ kept fast on this day and recommended to his companions and believers to do the same. The importance of the day assumes added importance for as said by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: “There is no day in which Allah sets free more souls from the fire of hell than on the day of Arafah.” (Muslim) In fact, fasting on the Day of Arafah for non-pilgrims is a highly recommended Sunnah which entails a great reward; Allah forgives the sins of two years.

This hadith is mentioned in Sahi Muslim Hadith number 1162b, part of which is shared herein under: 

عَنْ أَبِي قَتَادَةَ اَلْأَنْصَارِيِّ ‏- رضى الله عنه ‏- { أَنَّ رَسُولَ اَللَّهِ ‏- صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏-سُئِلَ عَنْ صَوْمِ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ.‏ قَالَ: " يُكَفِّرُ اَلسَّنَةَ اَلْمَاضِيَةَ وَالْبَاقِيَةَ ", وَسُئِلَ عَنْ صِيَامِ يَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ.‏ قَالَ: " يُكَفِّرُ اَلسَّنَةَ اَلْمَاضِيَةَ " وَسُئِلَ عَنْ صَوْمِ يَوْمِ اَلِاثْنَيْنِ, قَالَ: " ذَاكَ يَوْمٌ وُلِدْتُ فِيهِ, وَبُعِثْتُ فِيهِ, أَوْ أُنْزِلَ عَلَيَّ فِيهِ "} رَوَاهُ مُسْلِمٌ 1‏ 

Abu Qatadah Al-Ansari (RAA) narrated, ‘The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked about fasting on the day of Arafah (the 9th of the month of Dhul Hijjah). He replied, "Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for the preceding year and the following year.” He was also asked about fasting on the Day of Ashura (the 10th of the month of Muharram). He replied, “Fasting on the Day of Ashura is an expiation for the preceding year.” The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was also asked about fasting on Monday, and he replied, "This is the day on which I was born and the day on which I was sent (with the Message of Islam) and the day on which I received revelation." Related by Muslim.

Those not performing Hajj may follow the prophetic sunnah and fast on 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah and have their sins washed away for the preceding and the following year.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān. Also refer to our reference page: Dhu al-Hijja (ذُو ٱلْحِجَّة): The month of Pilgrimage - The Hajj for more information on Hajj.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.
Photo | Sources of Hadith: | 1 | 2 | 3 | Wikipedia: Day of Arafah

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Wednesday 21 June 2023

Fasting during the first 10 days of Duh al Hijja (Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Fasting during the first 10 days of the month of Duh al Hijja is the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and especially on the ninth of Duh al Hijja, which is the day of Arafat, because fasting on this day means our sins from the previous and coming year will be expiated. This practice is Sunnah for Muslims and is highly recommended. 

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim The Book (#7) of Fasting - كتاب الصيام   / Chapter # 39 Fasting the (first) ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah) / باب صِيَامِ الْعَشْرِ‏) as Hadith number # 1727 as under:

حَدَّثَنَا عَلِيُّ بْنُ مُحَمَّدٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ مُسْلِمٍ الْبَطِينِ، عَنْ سَعِيدِ بْنِ جُبَيْرٍ، عَنِ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ ‏"‏ مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ الْعَمَلُ الصَّالِحُ فِيهَا أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللَّهِ مِنْ هَذِهِ الأَيَّامِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ يَعْنِي الْعَشْرَ ‏.‏ قَالُوا: يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ! وَلاَ الْجِهَادُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ قَالَ: ‏"‏ وَلاَ الْجِهَادُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ. إِلاَّ رَجُلٌ خَرَجَ بِنَفْسِهِ وَمَالِهِ فَلَمْ يَرْجِعْ مِنْ ذَلِكَ بِشَىْءٍ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbas that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
“There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days,” meaning the (first) ten days of Dhul- Hijjah. They said: “O Messenger of Allah! Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah?” He said: “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah, unless a man goes out with himself and his wealth and does not bring anything back.”

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

However, fasting on the 10th day of Duh al Hijja is prohibited being the Eid. This is specially mentioned by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as it appears in number of Hadith books as under:
With regard to fasting on the day of ‘Eid, this is haram (prohibited), as is indicated by the marfoo’ hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him): “He [the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)] forbade fasting on the day of ‘Eid) al-Fitr and the day of al-Nahr (the day of sacrifice, i.e., ‘Eid al-Adha).” (Narrated by al-Bukhari, no. 1992; Muslim, 827) 

For Id-ul-Adha, falling on the 10th day of Duh al Hijja, is a special day of festivities, especially for those who have just performed Hajj a day earlier and is a day to thank Allah for having blessed them with the opportunity to perform Hajj.  

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. 

Please refer to our page: Dhu al-Hijja (ذُو ٱلْحِجَّة): The month of Pilgrimage - The Hajj to know more about Dhu al-Hijja and Hajj. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Wednesday 29 March 2023

Whose Fasting in Ramadan is Not Accepted by Allah

Alhamdolillah, we have found yet another Ramdan of our lives and almost everyone, barring the fragile, old and unhealthy, are fasting during this sacred month of Ramadan. Fasting is an act of conditioning one's wants, both physical and mental, and desisting from acts which are otherwise permissible during the period of fasting. Fating trains us to control our desires and even our attitudes. However, many of us do not pay attention to the special requirements of fasting and may end up in unacceptability of their fasting act by Allah.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in one of his Hadiths has mentioned why one's fasting will not be accepted by Allah.  This Hadith is mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī (Book 30 - Fasting كتاب الصوم / Chapter (8): Whoever does not give up lying speech while observing Saum باب مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فِي الصَّوْمِ) as Hadith 1903, given herein under:

حَدَّثَنَا آدَمُ بْنُ أَبِي إِيَاسٍ، حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ أَبِي ذِئْبٍ، حَدَّثَنَا سَعِيدٌ الْمَقْبُرِيُّ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فَلَيْسَ لِلَّهِ حَاجَةٌ فِي أَنْ يَدَعَ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ ‏"

Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting.)"

This means if a fasting man cannot harness his tongue to rein in the forged speech or continues to indulge in evil act, telling lies and harming others both by his tongue and actions, he has failed to grasp the very basic conditions of why we do we fast. We must therefore be conscious of our behaviour and should not indulge in actions that are otherwise forbidden in our lives, for fasting in Ramadan conditions us to leave our bad habits and come clean when the month ends. 
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.
Photo | Source of Hadith

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Wednesday 16 November 2022

One who cannot afford to marry is advised to fast (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Relationship between man and woman is a natural requirement, both for establishment of a family and harness sexual desires by restricting these to one's spouse only. The following verse from Surah 24. An Nisa (The women) amply highlights the importance of marriage and Allah's promise to enhance one's means of sustenance:

وَاَنۡكِحُوا الۡاَيَامٰى مِنۡكُمۡ وَالصّٰلِحِيۡنَ مِنۡ عِبَادِكُمۡ وَاِمَآئِكُمۡ​ ؕ اِنۡ يَّكُوۡنُوۡا فُقَرَآءَ يُغۡنِهِمُ اللّٰهُ مِنۡ فَضۡلِهٖ​ ؕ وَاللّٰهُ وَاسِعٌ عَلِيۡمٌ‏ 
(24:32) Marry those of you that are single, (whether men or women), and those of your male and female slaves that are righteous. If they are poor, Allah will enrich them out of His Bounty. Allah is Immensely Resourceful, All-Knowing.

However, despite Divine promise, many men and women pass the age due to lack of resources and availability of adequate means of sustenance and affording a family. This also prompts some to engage in illegitimate relations which are considered Haram in Islam. 

For such an eventuality, there is a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī  (Book 30 Fasting كتاب الصوم / Chapter 10:  As-Saum for those who fear committing illegal sexual acts باب الصَّوْمِ لِمَنْ خَافَ عَلَى نَفْسِهِ الْعُزْبَةَ) as Hadith 1905:

حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدَانُ، عَنْ أَبِي حَمْزَةَ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، عَنْ عَلْقَمَةَ، قَالَ بَيْنَا أَنَا أَمْشِي، مَعَ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ فَقَالَ كُنَّا مَعَ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم فَقَالَ ‏ "‏ مَنِ اسْتَطَاعَ الْبَاءَةَ فَلْيَتَزَوَّجْ، فَإِنَّهُ أَغَضُّ لِلْبَصَرِ وَأَحْصَنُ لِلْفَرْجِ، وَمَنْ لَمْ يَسْتَطِعْ فَعَلَيْهِ بِالصَّوْمِ، فَإِنَّهُ لَهُ وِجَاءٌ ‏"‏‏.‏
While I was walking with `Abdullah he said, "We were in the company of the Prophet (ﷺ) and he said, 'He who can afford to marry should marry, because it will help him refrain from looking at other women, and save his private parts from committing illegal sexual relation; and he who cannot afford to marry is advised to fast, as fasting will diminish his sexual power."

In view of the above quoted verse from Qur'an and Hadith, it is amply clear that one should not delay his marriage because he cannot afford to for Allah promises means of sustenance to every servant of His. However, one can still not be able to marry and withhold his sexual desires, then he is advised to fast (Saum) for fasting will diminish one's sexual desires. But in no case, one should find an excuse for not having adequate means to marry and then indulge in illegitimate sex which is viewed as a gravest sin after Shirk in Islam and has severe penalties.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.  
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.
Photo

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Twitter Delicious Facebook Digg Stumbleupon Favorites More