Fasting is a highly rewarding act in Islam, and among the most special voluntary fasts are the Tarwiyah and Arafah fasts, observed on the 8th and 9th of Dhul-Hijjah. These fasts hold great spiritual benefits, especially for those who are not performing Hajj.
Understanding the niyyah (intention) for these fasts is essential to ensure they are performed correctly. This topic explains the meaning, virtues, and proper intention for Tarwiyah and Arafah fasting, along with key guidelines for observing them.
1. Understanding the Importance of Tarwiyah and Arafah Fasting
1.1 What is Tarwiyah Fasting?
Tarwiyah fasting is observed on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, a day before the Day of Arafah. The word "Tarwiyah" means "to think or reflect", as it was the day when pilgrims would prepare for their journey to Arafah.
1.2 What is Arafah Fasting?
Arafah fasting falls on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, the day when pilgrims gather at Mount Arafah, seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah. It is considered one of the most important fasting days outside of Ramadan.
1.3 Who Should Observe These Fasts?
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Muslims who are not performing Hajj are encouraged to fast on both Tarwiyah and Arafah.
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Pilgrims performing Hajj are not required to fast on these days, as they need strength for their pilgrimage.
2. The Niyyah (Intention) for Tarwiyah and Arafah Fasting
2.1 Why is Niyyah Important in Fasting?
In Islam, every act of worship must begin with a clear and sincere intention. For fasting, the niyyah must be made before Fajr (dawn) for it to be valid.
2.2 The Intention (Niat) for Tarwiyah Fasting
In Arabic:
نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ غَدٍ يَوْمَ التَّرْوِيَةِ سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration:
Nawaitu sauma ghadin yawma al-tarwiyah sunnatan lillahi ta’ala.
Meaning:
"I intend to fast tomorrow on the Day of Tarwiyah as a sunnah fast for the sake of Allah."
2.3 The Intention (Niat) for Arafah Fasting
In Arabic:
نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ غَدٍ يَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration:
Nawaitu sauma ghadin yawma Arafah sunnatan lillahi ta’ala.
Meaning:
"I intend to fast tomorrow on the Day of Arafah as a sunnah fast for the sake of Allah."
2.4 When to Make the Intention?
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The niyyah for Tarwiyah and Arafah fasting must be made before Fajr (dawn).
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However, since these are sunnah fasts, some scholars allow making the intention in the morning before midday-as long as one has not eaten or drunk anything.
3. The Virtues and Benefits of Tarwiyah and Arafah Fasting
3.1 Virtues of Fasting on Tarwiyah (8th Dhul-Hijjah)
While there is no explicit hadith that states specific rewards for fasting on Tarwiyah, it is generally regarded as a recommended fast. Since it falls in the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, which are the most blessed days of the year, fasting on this day brings great rewards.
3.2 Virtues of Fasting on Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah)
The Arafah fast is one of the most significant voluntary fasts. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
"Fasting on the Day of Arafah expiates the sins of the past year and the coming year." (Sahih Muslim)
This means that fasting on Arafah forgives minor sins from the previous year and the following year.
4. Key Differences Between Tarwiyah and Arafah Fasting
| Aspect | Tarwiyah Fasting | Arafah Fasting |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 8th Dhul-Hijjah | 9th Dhul-Hijjah |
| Obligation | Sunnah (voluntary) | Sunnah (highly recommended) |
| Reward | Part of the blessed Dhul-Hijjah fasting | Expiates sins for two years |
| For Pilgrims (Hajj) | Can be observed | Not recommended, as pilgrims need strength |
5. Guidelines for Observing Tarwiyah and Arafah Fasting
5.1 Who Can Observe These Fasts?
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Non-pilgrims (those not performing Hajj) are highly encouraged to fast.
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Pilgrims performing Hajj should not fast on Arafah, as the Prophet ﷺ did not fast on this day while in Hajj.
5.2 Recommended Practices During These Fasts
To maximize the blessings of these days, one should:
✅ Increase dhikr (remembrance of Allah), such as tahlil, takbir, and tahmid.
✅ Make dua, especially on Arafah, as it is the best day for supplication.
✅ Recite the Qur’an and engage in acts of charity.
6. Tips for a Smooth Fasting Experience
6.1 Eat a Nutritious Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)
A good suhoor helps sustain energy throughout the day. Include:
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Dates and fruits for natural sugars.
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Complex carbohydrates like whole grains.
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Protein-rich foods like eggs and yogurt.
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Plenty of water to stay hydrated.
6.2 Avoid Heavy Foods at Iftar
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Break your fast with dates and water, as the Prophet ﷺ recommended.
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Avoid oily and spicy foods that can cause discomfort.
6.3 Rest and Stay Hydrated
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Get enough sleep to avoid fatigue.
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Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours to stay hydrated.
7. Maximizing the Blessings of These Fasts
Observing Tarwiyah and Arafah fasting brings immense rewards and spiritual purification. While Tarwiyah fasting is a recommended practice, Arafah fasting is highly emphasized due to its great reward of forgiving sins for two years.
By making the correct niyyah, increasing worship, and following the Sunnah, one can fully benefit from the blessings of these sacred days.