Follow-Up on Fasting Discussion

Hello Ladies,

Thank you for a wonderful run today! The snow made the scenes so beautiful with every stride. I also enjoyed the discussion over dinner about fasting.

Grace--Thanks for your question about why the Prophet fasted on Mondays and Thursdays. I remembered later that these are the days when the two angels (who record our actions at all times) report to God. Then I did some reading and found the exact narrations, and I even learned something new (the second hadith):

1. The Prophet (peace be on him) mentioned that: “The deeds of the worshippers are presented before Allah on Monday and Thursday, I like my deeds to be presented while I am fasting.”

2. He (peace be on him) was asked about fasting on Monday, he said:” That is the day I was born and the day (the first Revelation) was sent down on me.”

I also knew that fasting on Fridays is not recommended because every Friday is a holiday in Islam; but I learned that it's also not recommended to fast on Saturdays or Sundays because these are the Holy days of Jews and Christians, respectively.

I can't find the exact chain of narrations for Hadith 2, but I read it in a few reputable sites, so I believe it's accurate. Also, I couldn't find narrations from the Prophet regarding fasting on Saturday or Sundays; just consensus from some scholars. Although I haven't done sufficient research, and I know that this is not a ruling of any type, I believe it is just a nice multi-faith sentiment :o)

love,

sarah