ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ (صوم التطوع)
Definition
ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ (صوم التطوع) refers to a voluntary fast observed by Muslims outside the obligatory fasting month of Ramaḍān. This practice is considered an act of devotion and piety, intended to draw nearer to Allah (God) and seek His pleasure and reward.
Etymology
- ṢAUMU (صوم): The Arabic word for fasting, which implies abstinence from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset.
- ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ (التطوع): This Arabic term means “voluntary” or “optional,” derived from the root word “ṭāʿa” (طاﻋـة), meaning obedience or willingness.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: صوم التطوع (ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ)
- Turkish: Nafile Oruç
Significance in Islam
ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ is highly esteemed in Islam for several reasons:
- Spiritual Growth: Engaging in voluntary fasting helps in spiritual purification and enhancing one’s self-discipline.
- Prophet’s Example: The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) frequently observed voluntary fasts and encouraged his followers to do the same.
- Additional Rewards: Fasting beyond the compulsory Ramaḍān fasts is believed to bring extra blessings and rewards from Allah.
Recommended Voluntary Fasts
There are certain days where voluntary fasting is especially recommended, including:
- Six days of Shawwāl: Fasting six days in the month following Ramaḍān.
- Āshūrāʾ: The 10th day of Muḥarram.
- Day of `Arafah: For non-pilgrims, it is observed on the 9th day of Dhū al-Ḥijjah.
- Mondays and Thursdays: Regular weekly fasts as practiced by the Prophet Muhammad.
Books for Further Studies
- “Fiqh us-Sunnah: Purification and Prayer” by Sayyid Sabiq.
- “The Book of Fasting (Kitab al-Siyam)” from Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.
- “Inner Dimensions of Islamic Worship” by Imam al-Ghazali.
Takeaways
- Voluntary Commitment: ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ represents a personal commitment to deepen one’s faith outside obligatory practices.
- Spiritual Enhancement: Aims to purify the soul and gain divine favor.
- Flexibility: Allows Muslims to engage in acts of worship at their discretion, following the example set by the Prophet Muhammad.
Conclusion
ṢAUMU ʾT-TAT̤AWWUʿ plays an essential role in the spiritual lives of Muslims, offering them an avenue to draw nearer to Allah, emulate the Prophet’s practices, and gain additional spiritual rewards. Understanding and participating in such voluntary acts enrich one’s faith and devotion.
