Part 2: �Fasting Expiates Sins� by Imam al-`Izz Ibn `Abd Al-Salam

Part 2:

�Fasting is an Expiation for Sins�

� Imam al-`Izz Ibn `Abd Al-Salam

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�As for expiation of sins (takfir al-khati�at), this is based on what he [s: the Messenger of Allah] � upon him be blessings and peace said: �One Ramadan to another is expiation [s: for the sins committed] in between them so longs as major sins were avoided��[1] And based on what he � upon him be peace � said: �Whoever fasts the month of Ramadan with true belief and conviction as well as out of hope of attaining reward [s: from Allah], all his past sins will be forgiven���[2] This means: �if one believes in it being a duty [s: ordained by Allah] and in hope of attaining reward from his Lord for doing it��.�[3]

Notes:

1. Fasting is a means of sins and wrongdoing being forgiven � this encourages a person to perform it.
2. Fasting is an expression of Allah�s Mercy and Benevolence and so a serious believer ought to reflect on the great benefits of fasting as well as Allah�s unbounded attributes of Mercy and Kindness.
3. Fasting if coupled with awareness of the duty being a commandment of Allah as well as awareness that only Allah can reward for its performance, is cause for sins being forgiven within a bracket of at least one year (= one Ramadan to another).

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s.z.c.

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[1] Muslim, Sahih (#233) and Ahmad, al-Musnad, 2/400.

[2] Bukhari, Sahih (#233) and Muslim, Sahih (#760).

[3] Imam al-`Izz Ibn `Abd al-Salam, Maqasid al-Sawm, p.15.

Source