Dubai, August 14: Using bad language while fasting diminishes its benefits, according to a new fatwa.
Fasting Muslims should avoid bad manners or risk invalidating their fast according to guidance issued by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE) in Abu Dhabi.
The latest release is part of a series of fatwas aimed at helping Muslims answer questions concerning fasting.
The intention behind the fast is to strengthen fear of Allah (Taqwah) as He said: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al Muttaqoon [the pious].” Soorah Al Baqarah, Aayah 183.
According to the fatwa, Allah has explained the wisdom behind the obligation of fasting upon us and that is to attain fear of Allah.
The Prophet (PBUH) had said: “One who does not abandon evil talk and actions, then Allah is not in need of him abandoning his food and drink [ie his fasting].”
Rather, the Prophet (PBUH) commanded the one who is fasting that, should someone curse him or attempt to kill him, he should say: “I am fasting.” By that the one who is swearing or abusing is deterred.
By this, he will know that the one who is fasting has not responded, not because of any weakness, but because of piety and fear of Allah.
A fasting person must be patient and persevering, not allowing these conflicting issues to affect him regardless of how he feels inside, the Fatwa said.
It is confirmed from the Prophet (PBUH) that a man said: “O Messenger of Allah, advise me.”
The Prophet (PBUH) replied: “Don’t become angry.” He repeated this several times.
-Agencies