Comprehensive Definition
ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ (صوم التطوع) refers to the non-obligatory, voluntary fasting observed by Muslims beyond the mandatory fasting month of Ramaḍān. It encompasses a variety of fasts practiced for personal spiritual growth, acts of devotion, or on specific days that hold particular religious significance such as Mondays, Thursdays, the Day of ‘Arafah, and the six days of Shawwāl.
Etymology
The term ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ comes from the Arabic root ص-و-م (ṣ-w-m), meaning to abstain, and تَطَوُّع (taṭawwu’), which means voluntary or supererogatory. Thus, ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ can be translated as “voluntary fasting.”
Background
ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ holds a special place in Islamic tradition. While fasting during Ramaḍān is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all capable Muslims, voluntary fasting provides additional opportunities for acts of worship and righteousness. Notable examples of ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ include fasting on the Day of ‘Arafah (9th of Dhul-Hijjah) for greater merit, or the six days of Shawwāl that follow Eid al-Fitr, expanding upon one’s fasts for further spiritual benefit.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across the Muslim world, the practice of voluntary fasting is both shared and varied. In some communities, specific days for voluntary fasting are observed with greater adherence, influenced by local traditions. The flexible nature of ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ allows for diverse interpretations and practices while uniting Muslims in the broader spiritual intention of striving for higher piety and closeness to Allah.
Synonyms
- Voluntary Fast
- Supererogatory Fasting
Antonyms
- Farḍ (Obligatory Fasting): The mandatory fast carried out during the month of Ramaḍān.
Related Terms
- Ramaḍān (رمضان): The Islamic holy month during which obligatory fasting is observed from dawn to sunset.
- Ṣadaqah (صدقة): Voluntary charity in Islam, highlighting the notion of doing extra good deeds outside of obligatory actions.
Exciting Facts
- Flexible Commitment: Unlike Ramaḍān, voluntary fasting is not restricted to a specific month, allowing practitioners to fast according to their personal schedules and intentions.
- Health Benefits: Beyond spiritual benefits, many find that voluntary fasting helps in detoxifying the body and improving mental clarity.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The act of voluntary fasting is like sculpting a statue; every abstention is a chisel stroke, revealing the sanctuary of the soul.” — Leila bin Ibrahim
References
- Al-Ghazali, “Inner Dimensions of Islamic Worship”.
- Lane, Edward William. “An Arabic-English Lexicon”.
- Al-Bukhari, Shahih al-Bukhari. Hadith Collection on fasting.
Suggested Literature and Further Sources
- “Reclaim Your Heart” by Yasmin Mogahed: Reflects on spiritual practices and the significance of including voluntary fasting in one’s faith journey.
- “The Book of Fasting” by Imam al-Bukhari: Offers extensive insights into the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings regarding fasting.
May your journey into the depths of Islamic traditions be as enlightening and enriching as the act of voluntary fasting itself. Your commitment to understanding and exploring ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ reflects a beautiful quest for spiritual fulfillment.
Inspirational Thought: “In the weight of abstention lies the invitation to a featherlight soul that soars toward the Divine.”
Farewell, Aisha Al-Nouri October 2023
