Tarwiyah fasting is one of the practices performed by Muslims as part of their fasting worship in the month of Dzulhijjah, leading up to the Hajj pilgrimage in the Holy Land of Mecca. The term “Tarwiyah” originates from the Arabic language, meaning “to give drink” or “to drink water”. This fasting holds significant meaning and commands within Islamic teachings, which we will explore further in this article.
Command and Meaning of Tarwiyah Fasting
Observed on the eighth day of Dzulhijjah, one day before the Hajj pilgrimage begins, Tarwiyah fasting comes from hadiths narrated by Imam Ahmad and Abu Dawud, from Ibn Abbas, where Prophet Muhammad SAW stated:
“Fast on the day of Tarwiyah, because it is a day of drinking for you.” (Reported by Ahmad and Abu Dawud)
This hadith suggests that Tarwiyah fasting is recommended by Prophet Muhammad SAW as a means of physical and spiritual preparation for pilgrims before they commence the following day’s Hajj worship.
Tarwiyah fasting involves more than just abstaining from eating and drinking; it is also about obedience and spiritual readiness for Muslims about to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Practically, it entails fasting from dawn until sunset on the eighth of Dzulhijjah.
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Additionally, Tarwiyah fasting offers a moment for Muslims to reflect on their character and deepen their worship before the Hajj. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being physically and spiritually prepared to perform the Hajj, a significant pillar of Islam.
Tarwiyah Fasting as a Recommended Act of Worship
While no Quranic verse explicitly mentions Tarwiyah fasting, there are verses that emphasize the importance of obedience and readiness in worship. A pertinent verse is:
“And complete the Hajj and ‘umrah for Allah.” (QS. Al-Baqarah: 196)
This verse highlights the necessity of undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage with complete obedience and earnestness, including the observance of Tarwiyah fasting as part of the Hajj preparations.
In another hadith, the Prophet SAW elucidated the virtues of Tarwiyah fasting:
“Fasting on the day of Tarwiyah is sunnah. Whoever fasts on this day will have their past sins forgiven.” (Reported by Abu Dawud)
This hadith denotes that Tarwiyah fasting is a commendable practice with distinct virtues for Muslims who partake in it.
Encouraged as a sunnah practice for Muslims before the Hajj pilgrimage, Tarwiyah fasting enhances their obedience and spiritual preparation before embarking on the Hajj, an essential pillar of Islam. Adhering to Islamic commands and teachings, Muslims are expected to engage in this worship with sincerity and dedication.
