Powerful Voluntary Fasts: Essential Guide to Extra Rewards

Voluntary fasts are a beautiful way to draw closer to Allah and earn immense rewards beyond the obligatory fasts of Ramadan. This essential guide explores the most recommended days, authentic proofs, and practical tips to help you incorporate these sunnah practices into your life.

Table of Contents

• What Are Voluntary Fasts?
• Recommended Days for Voluntary Fasts
• Rewards and Spiritual Benefits
• Practical Tips for Consistency
• Quran and Hadith References
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

What Are Voluntary Fasts?

Voluntary fasts, also known as nafl or sunnah fasts, are acts of worship performed out of love for Allah, seeking extra rewards beyond what is obligatory. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged these fasts, saying, “Whoever fasts one day for the sake of Allah, Allah will remove his face from the Fire by a distance of seventy years” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sunnah.com).

These fasts are a means to purify the soul, increase taqwa, and develop self-discipline. They also provide an opportunity to earn Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness.

Recommended Days for Voluntary Fasts

Mondays and Thursdays

The Prophet ﷺ used to fast on Mondays and Thursdays. He said, “Deeds are presented (to Allah) on Monday and Thursday, and I love that my deeds be presented while I am fasting” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Sunnah.com). These are excellent days to start your voluntary fasting journey.

The White Days (Ayyam al-Beed)

Fasting on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each Islamic month is highly recommended. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Fasting three days of each month is like fasting the whole year” (Sahih Muslim, Sunnah.com). These days are known as the White Days because the moon is full.

Day of Arafah

For those not performing Hajj, fasting on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) expiates sins of the previous year and the coming year. The Prophet ﷺ said, “It expiates the sins of the past year and the coming year” (Sahih Muslim, Sunnah.com).

Day of Ashura

Fasting on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) expiates sins of the previous year. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope Allah will expiate thereby the sins of the past year” (Sahih Muslim, Sunnah.com). It is recommended to also fast the 9th or 11th to differ from the Jews.

Six Days of Shawwal

Fasting six days of Shawwal after Ramadan is like fasting the entire year. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted the whole year” (Sahih Muslim, Sunnah.com).

Other Recommended Days

• The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah (especially the Day of Arafah).
• The month of Sha’ban (the Prophet ﷺ used to fast most of it).
• Alternate-day fasting (the fast of Prophet Dawud عليه السلام).

Rewards and Spiritual Benefits

Voluntary fasts bring immense rewards. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Every deed of the son of Adam is multiplied, a good deed being ten times its like, up to seven hundred times. Allah says: ‘Fasting is for Me, and I shall reward for it’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sunnah.com).

Beyond the scales, fasting builds patience, empathy for the poor, and spiritual awareness. It trains the soul to obey Allah even when hungry, strengthening your connection to your Creator.

Practical Tips for Consistency

Start small—fast one or two days a week (e.g., Monday and Thursday). Gradually add the White Days. Use a lunar calendar to track Islamic dates. Plan your meals for suhoor and iftar to maintain energy. Remember, even a single day of voluntary fasting earns great reward.

Share your intention with family or join a local masjid community for encouragement. You can also find Islamic businesses that support healthy fasting lifestyles.

Quran and Hadith References

Allah says in the Quran: “And fast for your own good if you only knew” (Quran 2:184, Quran.com). The Prophet ﷺ also said, “There is no day that a servant fasts except that Allah distances the Fire from his face by seventy years” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sunnah.com).

For more detailed rulings, consult reliable scholars at IslamQA.info.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make up missed Ramadan fasts on recommended voluntary days?

Yes, you can combine intention. It is better to make up missed obligatory fasts first, but if you fast on a recommended day with the intention of making up, you still earn the reward of that day.

Is it allowed to fast on Fridays alone?

The Prophet ﷺ discouraged singling out Friday for fasting unless you fast the day before or after. It is better to fast Thursday and Friday or Friday and Saturday together.

Can I fast if I am traveling or sick?

Voluntary fasts are not obligatory. If you are traveling or ill, you may skip them without sin. It is better to fast when you are able to do so comfortably.

How do I start incorporating voluntary fasts into my routine?

Begin with the most emphasized days: Mondays and Thursdays, the White Days, and special days like Arafah and Ashura. Use a calendar app to remind you. Start with one or two days per week and increase gradually.

Conclusion

Voluntary fasts are a powerful way to earn extra rewards and draw closer to Allah. By fasting on recommended days, you follow the sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and gain spiritual benefits that last a lifetime. Start today with a small, consistent step, and watch your faith grow. May Allah accept our efforts and grant us the strength to fast for His pleasure.