CONTINUING FASTING

FAEZ: During the pre-Islamic era and the earlier period of Islam, compulsory fasting was observed on the 10th of Muharam (Ashura). But when the fasting of the month of Ramadhan was prescribed, the fasting of Ashura was abandoned and made voluntary.

MULIA: Presently whoever wishes may fast on the day of Ashura, which is optional. But the Jews still observed this Ashura fasting.

TEGUH: Muslims are forbidden to fast on the first day of Id-ul-Fitri (Hari Raya Puasa) and Id-ul-Adha (Hari Raya Haji).

AKHTAR: If somebody eats or drinks forgetfully during the day time month of Ramadhan then he should complete his fast, for what he has eaten or drunk has been given to him by Allah.

TEGUH: Cleaning ones teeth with siwak (I presume same rulings with toothbrush) while performing fasting, there is no harm in swallowing the “resultant saliva” (in a very small volume) but extra precautions not to be overdoing it. The siwak should be the green or dry siwak, compare with those fresh and juicy siwak.

FAEZ: Brushing ones teeth during fasting, plus using toothpaste, has some lengthy debate too. One group says, cleaning by brushing ones teeth is an act of purification of the mouth and it is a way of seeking Allah’s pleasures especially if done before each solat.

AKHTAR: But the “bad” odour from our mouth due to fasting, would be likings by Allah and will be graced like the smell of lemon/kasturi.

MULIA: Whoever performs ablution, and his normal daily practise by washes his nose in putting water in it then blowing it out and rinsing his mouth with water, there is no harm unless he swallows his saliva. But how much is considered harmful? I have no answer to this at the moment.

FAEZ: However some water might enter his throat and he is unable to bring it back, that would not affect his fasting, but be careful.

TEGUH: The best option during the month of Ramadhan in observing fasting, it is better not to brush our teeth with toothpaste and not to put water into our nose or mouth during the day time, in order to avoid from invalidating our fast.

FAEZ: Whoever did not fast for one day of Ramadhan without genuine excuse or a chronic disease, even then if he fasted for a complete year, it would not compensate for that day.