ISWV: Fasting in Shawwāl
Ramadan brings us all together and reminds us of the Mercy of Allah and the strength, comfort, and importance of community. As many of us know too well, as Ramadan passes into the distance, so does the spirit of Ramadan, until the following year. In the hopes of changing this cycle, we will be starting a fasting program rooted in Hadith to help us keep the spirit of Ramadan all year round, Insh'Allah.
Shawwal Fasting
"Whoever fasts Ramadhan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime."
Narrated by Muslim, Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhi, An-Nisa'i and Ibn Majah
Monthly Year Round Fasting
Abu Dharr Al-Ghifaari said, The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad {Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam} said:
"Whoever fasts from every month three days, it is like fasting the whole year, then Allah revealed what backs this in His book Whoever comes with a good deed, he is rewarded ten folds, one day for ten."
For those interested in participating, we will be fasting three days this month, the last three days of Shawwal (Monday August 1st to Wednesday August 3rd). On the final day of the fast (Wednesday August 3rd), all those who fasted all or any of the three days are welcome and invited to join at the masjid for a community Iftar and discussion. Fasting program/structure:
* Day 1 of fast = Repentance -- Self-reflection and soul searching
Asking God for forgiveness in ways you've hurt others or ways you've transgressed.
* Day 2 of fast = Supplication -- Dua.
There will be a book present in the masjid where people can write their intentions so that others can pray for them on this day in particular. Focus on the things we are needing from Allah.
* Day 3 of fast = Thanksgiving & Glorification -- Alhamdulilah.
Really offering the day's fast as one focused on seeing all the blessings in one's life. It is in this spirit that we come together as a community to break fast.
* Iftar on Day 3
Community comes together to break fast, and shares what they gained from the 3 day fast, and what kinds of things were brought to their heart over that time. External Event Url
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